Volkswagen - Phaeton (2005)

When you think of luxury sedans from the mid‑2000s, the Volkswagen Phaeton often comes to mind. Rolls‑out the 2005 winner in its full, three‑door, six‑door configuration—either the distressed elegance California or the more muscular sport version—anyone who’s ever asked about the Volkswagen Phaeton price will find that the make has a unique blend of Italian styling and German engineering. In today’s used‑car market, it’s common for the 2005 model to land somewhere between a modest entry price and a respectable high‑end figure once you factor in mileage, condition, and trim. For every buyer looking for value, the 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is a fascinating study in how a premium long‑horizon luxury can be purchased at a surprisingly competitive price point.

Key Specs for the 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton

• Engine: 3.6‑liter VR6 Twin‑Cam (three‑cylinder four‑reversed‑combination)
• Power Output: 280 hp at 4,600 rpm
• Torque: 319 lb‑ft (433 Nm) at 2,900 rpm
• Transmission: 6‑speed automatic with manual mode
• Fuel Type: Premium gasoline
• Drive: Front‑wheel or optional all‑wheel drive
• Dimensions: Length: 196.1 in (4,990 mm)
• Width: 71.1 in (1,805 mm)
• Wheelbase: 115.2 in (2,925 mm)
• Seating Capacity: Up to 5 passengers
• Cargo Volume: Up to 35.5 cu ft (1,006 L) with rear seats folded
• Fuel Economy: EPA: 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway (combined: 23 MPG)
• Safety Features: Airbags, ABS, stability control, and optional traction control
• Optional Highlights: Adaptive cruise control, leather upholstery, heated boot, and month‑marriage (historic) terraword stamping.

Depreciation Insights

The Volkswagen Phaeton depreciation curve mirrors many luxury vehicles from the era: while the initial drop can be steep, the wings out over time. Roughly speaking, a new Phaeton might lose between 15–20% of its value in the first year after sale. By the third year, the steepest part of the curve usually smooths out, and you’ll see a typical loss of 30–35% from the launch price. Over the long haul, the vehicle generally holds roughly 60–65% of its original value by the fifth year if it’s well maintained and within reasonable mileage ranges. This depreciation trajectory is a key point for anyone curious about what is a 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton worth today—especially when piecing together budgets for purchase.

By comparison, the price drop for a comparable Italian luxury sedan, such as the Lancia Thesis, tends to be marginally

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