1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 773 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 S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
