2003 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 2 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (173 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 574 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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Multivan has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2005 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 520 | Multivan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 2274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
