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The Volkswagen Phaeton (pronounced "fay-tun") is a large luxury sedan manufactured by Volkswagen. As of 2004, the Phaeton has the longest wheelbase in the Volkswagen model line. In Dresden, Germany, the car is end-manufactured in a distinctive factory with a glass exterior (http://www.glaeserne-manufaktur.de), the Gläserne Manufaktur, which looks rather beautiful, especially at night.
Its platform is shared with the Bentley Continental GT and Bentley Continental Flying Spur.
Specifications
Powertrain
In the 2004 model year, the Phaeton's powertrains (American- and Canadian-spec models) are comprised of one of the following petrol-burning engines:
- A 4.2 L V8, generating 335 bhp (250 kW) and a maximum of 317 ft.lbf (430 Nm) of torque at 3,500 rpm
- A 6.0 L W12, producing 420 bhp (313 kW) and generating a maximum of 406 ft.lbf (550 Nm) of torque at 3,250 to 4,250 rpm
In Europe the Phaeton is offered with a V6 (177 kW) petrol engine, a V6 (165kW) diesel engine and as a novelty on the world market a V10 (230 kW) diesel engine with 750 Nm of torque.
The power passes through a 6-speed automatic transmission (with the V8), a 5-speed automatic transmission (with the W12), and to a permanent all-wheel drive system (dubbed "4MOTION").
There is an advanced traction control system featuring Anti-lock braking system (ABS), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), Engine Braking Control (EBC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with brake assist and a draft-free air conditioning.
Performance
The V8 variant of the Phaeton accelerates from 0-60 mph on 6.7 seconds. The W12 variant takes 5.9 seconds. Both vehicles are electronically limited to 250 km/h (156 mph) maximum.
Dimensions
The Phaeton is 203.7 inches (5.17 m) long, 74.9 inches (1.9 m) wide and 57.1 inches (1.45 m) high. It has a curb weight of 5,194 lb (2,356 kg) for the V8 and 5,399 lb (2,449 kg) for the W12.
References
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