2006 BMW 730 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 730 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 29 more horse power than 2006 BMW 730. (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 218 kg more than 2006 BMW 730. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 730 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 2006 BMW 730. 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 730. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 730 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 730 | Routan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 2038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 78 L |
