1998 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (420 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 854 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (552 Nm) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 552 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 95 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2449 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
