2009 BMW 330 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 6 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. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (268 HP @ 6650 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 450 kg more than 2009 BMW 330.
Because 2009 BMW 330 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 2009 BMW 330. 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, both vehicles can yield 315 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 330 | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 330 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6650 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
