1998 BMW 330 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 330 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1998 BMW 330. (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 394 kg more than 1998 BMW 330. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1998 BMW 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Routan. (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Routan. 2011 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 330 | 2011 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 330 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1953 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
