Diesel (Mercedes S class) engines typically outperform gasoline engines in terms of fuel efficiency and low-end torque. This makes them more economical and better suited for towing or long-distance travel. However, gasoline (Volkswagen Phaeton) engines mostly are lighter, quieter, and offer better acceleration and responsiveness, especially in smaller vehicles. For more information, see the article "Diesel or Petrol: Fuel Economy and Key Differences."
Performance
Power:
320 HP
335 HP
Torque:
730 NM
430 NM
Acceleration 0-100 km/h:
6 seconds
6.9 seconds
Mercedes S class is more dynamic to drive. Mercedes S class engine produces 15 HP less power than Volkswagen Phaeton, but torque is 300 NM more than Volkswagen Phaeton. Despite less power, Mercedes S class reaches 100 km/h speed 0.9 seconds faster.
Fuel consumption
Fuel consumption (l/100km):
9.6
13.1
The Mercedes S class is a better choice when it comes to fuel economy. Mercedes S class consumes 3.5 litres less fuel per 100 km than the Volkswagen Phaeton, which means that by driving the Mercedes S class over 15,000 km in a year you can save 525 litres of fuel.
Fuel tank capacity:
90 litres
90 litres
Full fuel tank distance:
930 km in combined cycle
680 km in combined cycle
1210 km on highway
910 km on highway
Mercedes S class gets more mileage on one fuel tank.
Volkswagen Phaeton has fewer problems. According to annual technical inspection data Mercedes S class has serious deffects in 120 percent more cases than Volkswagen Phaeton, so Volkswagen Phaeton quality is probably significantly better
