2009 Audi R8 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 6 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, 2009 Audi R8 (420 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. (330 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1386 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
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, both vehicles can yield 430 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 2009 Audi R8 has manual transmission. 2009 Audi R8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | R8 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 2281 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 10 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 19.6 L/100km | 19 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 13.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
