1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 760 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (224 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 280 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1973 | 1954 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 89 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 64 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |