2008 BMW 523 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (420 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 959 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (551 Nm) has 321 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 523 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2449 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 16.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
