2001 BMW M3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (420 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 854 kg more than 2001 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (551 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (502 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2449 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
