1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton would be higher. At 1,767 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. (39 HP @ 3200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 58 kg more than 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton 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 Ponton. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton. (100 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Mercedes-Benz Ponton | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ponton | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3010 mm |
