1999 BMW 323 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (251 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1999 BMW 323. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 639 kg more than 1999 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Volkswagen Routan (351 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2010 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 2096 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
