1986 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,996 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 497 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. (422 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5547 cc | 5996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 422 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 2297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2890 mm |
