2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1296 kg more than 2001 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 2001 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 (551 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A 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:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.1 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 2366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 90 L |
