1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 676 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (431 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 431 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1374 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
