2005 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 140 kg more than 2013 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton. (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Phaeton | S |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2160 kg | 2020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3165 mm |
