1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (58 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 59 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. (126 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 220 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 220 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2197 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |