2004 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 8 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2004 BMW 325. (116 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 754 kg more than 2004 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 325. (220 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 325. 2012 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 2004 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2004 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 325 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Routan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.9 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 78 L |
