2008 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 750 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Phaeton | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2076 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 4.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 54 L |
