1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (53 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 32 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (114 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
