2004 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 69 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 318 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 90 L |
