2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 3 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 175 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |
