1998 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1077 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 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 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 2172 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
