1970 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 20 kg more than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Beetle |
Year Released | 1970 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |