2004 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (420 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 339 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1123 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (552 Nm) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Phaeton | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 552 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2449 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 16.8 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |
