1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 677 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 450 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
