1970 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E (95 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
