1998 Nissan Serena 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 Nissan Serena. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Nissan Serena 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 234 more horse power than 1998 Nissan Serena. (96 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 Nissan Serena. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Nissan Serena weights approximately 154 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Nissan Serena. 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 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Nissan Serena. (131 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Nissan Serena. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1998 Nissan Serena has manual transmission. 1998 Nissan Serena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Nissan Serena | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Serena | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 3010 mm |
