2003 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton. (222 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 718 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.
Because 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW M3. (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW M3. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2007 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 90 L |
