2008 BMW Z4 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 4,130 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. (335 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 871 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW Z4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (365 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 2356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
