2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 (239 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 835 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
