1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 6,329 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (420 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 321 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (551 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600. (500 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 600 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 600 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6329 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 103 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2770 kg | 2449 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6250 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3910 mm | 3010 mm |
