2002 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2002 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 696 kg more than 2002 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 318. (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 318. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2002 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2002 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
