2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (190 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 602 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1803 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 2076 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
