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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 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 670 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 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). 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 | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
