2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
