1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 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, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220.
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, 2000 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. Let's talk about torque, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle (152 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 has manual transmission. 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 220 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2195 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 45 L |
