2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (229 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 500 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (320 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 229 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.1 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 248 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
