1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,324 cc, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. (59 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 102 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190. (118 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2324 cc |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 133 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
