2009 BMW Z4 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (335 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 850 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
Because 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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. 2009 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z4 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 11.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
