1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 50 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 57 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 618 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New 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, 2006 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, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (255 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1780 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
