2004 BMW 320 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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 396 kg more than 2004 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 BMW 320 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.

Compare all specifications:

2004 BMW 320 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 320 Phaeton
Year Released 2004 2008
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1993 cc 3189 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 238 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 95.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 11.3:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 211 km/hour 245 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.7 seconds 8.4 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1680 kg 2076 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 5060 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 90 L