2008 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 5 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (167 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 106 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 2281 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.8 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 90 L |
