2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (444 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 347 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (551 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLK | Phaeton |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 444 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 551 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 12.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1318 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |