1950 Mercury Roadster vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1950 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1950 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1950 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 306 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 Mercury Roadster 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 1950 Mercury Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New 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. 1950 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1950 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1950 Mercury Roadster | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
Model | Roadster | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1950 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3990 cc | 1422 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1244 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4100 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2470 mm |