2005 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 BMW 525. (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 220 kg more than 2005 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 525. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 525 | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
