2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. (237 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 317 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton. (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2012 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2550 kg | 2233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 5059 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2881 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
