2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (308 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 584 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 308 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 2489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
