2003 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (239 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 325 kg more than 2003 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 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:
2003 BMW 520 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 520 | Phaeton |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2170 cc | 3189 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 239 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.9 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |