2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 829 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Phaeton |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 4172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 330 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 430 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 3010 mm |