1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (172 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (255 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2410 mm |
