2004 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (239 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (203 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Phaeton | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
