1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 220 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
