1999 BMW M5 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,900 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. (283 HP @ 6350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 428 kg more than 1999 BMW M5.
Because 1999 BMW M5 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 M5. 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, 1999 BMW M5 (499 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. (352 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M5 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
