Description
2006 Volkswagen Phaeton W12 6. 0L Petrol – Project Vehicle
We are offering this highly sought-after Volkswagen Phaeton W12 as a project car, and it is being sold strictly as seen with no warranty given or implied.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a flagship W12 model from Volkswagen's most ambitious luxury programme—an increasingly recognised modern classic.
Vehicle Overview
The Phaeton W12 was developed under Ferdinand Piëch with the goal of competing directly with the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series. Built on the same platform as the Audi A8 D3, these cars were engineered to an exceptionally high standard and share significant components across the VW/ Audi Group.
This example is powered by the 6. 0L W12 engine, offering smooth and effortless performance, and remains one of the most desirable variants in the Phaeton range.
Mechanical Condition (Important – Please Read)
This vehicle is being sold as a project due to a gearbox fault:
The gearbox does not correctly engage under hard acceleration
The vehicle must be stopped to allow the system to reset before driving again
Based on research, the likely remedies are:
Gearbox removal and refurbishment
Or full gearbox replacement
The transmission fitted is the ZF 5HP24A (VW 01L):
Shared with the Audi A8 W12
Designed for high-torque AWD applications
Widely recognised within Audi/ VW specialist networks
The engine:
Starts without issue
Runs smoothly
Bodywork & Exterior
The vehicle requires paintwork attention
There are areas of surface corrosion present
Overall, the car would benefit from cosmetic refurbishment
Interior
Interior condition is generally decent for age
Presents well as shown in photos
A good base for improvement or preservation
Summary
This is not a turnkey vehicle—this is a genuine project.
However, it represents:
A rare W12 flagship model
A car with shared Audi/ Bentley engineering DNA
An increasingly appreciated modern classic
A strong candidate for restoration, specialist repair, or enthusiast ownership
Important Notes
Sold strictly as a project vehicle
No warranty provided or implied
Buyers should expect to undertake mechanical and cosmetic work
We strongly recommend inspection prior to purchase
Final Thoughts
The Phaeton W12 remains one of the most over-engineered and underappreciated luxury cars of its era. With values beginning to stabilise and interest growing—particularly in W12 models—this presents an opportunity for the right buyer to acquire and restore a truly unique vehicle.
We can deliver - or view at BN189PX West Sussex
