2001 BMW Compact vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Compact. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Compact would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2001 BMW Compact. (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Compact. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 504 kg more than 2001 BMW Compact. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW Compact 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 Compact. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Compact. (237 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Compact. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW Compact has manual transmission. 2001 BMW Compact 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:
| 2001 BMW Compact | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Compact | Routan |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
