2008 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 5 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 500 kg more than 2008 BMW 525.
Because 2008 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 525. 2008 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. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 525 | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 525 | Phaeton |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
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 | 0 HP | 238 HP |
Torque | 250 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 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 | 1495 kg | 1995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5060 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |