1971 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 977 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz E | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 159 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 2307 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 |
