1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 756 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
