1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 70 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 would be higher. At 3,208 cc (6 cylinders), 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 weights approximately 470 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 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 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. (223 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320.
Compare all specifications:
1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 320 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1942 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3208 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 78 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2537 mm |