1967 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 69 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1967 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
