1999 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,796 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 318 weights approximately 193 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Routan.
Because 1999 BMW 318 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 1999 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (313 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318. 2009 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2009 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 3796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
