1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 (83 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 563 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 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 1954 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, 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 (157 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 220 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 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 | 83 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2410 mm |
