2012 Volkswagen Routan vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2009 BMW 525. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 334 kg more than 2009 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2009 BMW 525 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Routan. (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Routan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Routan | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Routan | 525 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6350 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2084 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5144 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1953 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3078 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 70 L |
