2004 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 325 (116 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 935 kg more than 2004 BMW 325.
Because 2004 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 325. (222 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 325 | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | T5 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 19 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
