2009 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 523 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
