2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 226 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (470 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. (320 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
