1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,229 cc (6 cylinders), 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 (53 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 (139 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 230 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1941 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2229 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2410 mm |
