2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 3 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 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 350 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2606 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
