1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (93 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. (156 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.2 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
