2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (335 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 461 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (401 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 4130 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 2356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
