2006 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mercedes-Benz R would be higher. At 3,506 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (172 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 102 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz R. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen T5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | T5 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 13.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2205 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
