1950 Mercury Roadster vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 63 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1950 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1950 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 190 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2013 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Mercury Roadster | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercury | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3990 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4277 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2537 mm |
