1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (245 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 797 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500. (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 4920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1608 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2890 mm |
