2001 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 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 84 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1007 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 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 2001 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 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318. 2009 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2001 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:

2001 BMW 318 2009 Volkswagen Routan
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 318 Routan
Year Released 2001 2009
Body Type Hatchback Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 3796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 113 HP 197 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 167 Nm 313 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 2307 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 5150 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1960 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1760 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 3080 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 78 L