1996 Mercedes-Benz G 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 G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (217 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 16 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. (300 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz G | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2150 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2890 mm |
