1998 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 538 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 320 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
