2009 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 414 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
