2008 BMW 325 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. (239 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 440 kg more than 2008 BMW 325.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325. 2008 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 325 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
