1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 821 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
