1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 150 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. 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
