2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 4,920 cc (10 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1040 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (230 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 SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 4920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 309 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 11.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
