2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 669 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (310 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
