2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,439 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. (308 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 480 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. (750 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 308 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2009 kg | 2489 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 18.1 L/100km | 16.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
