1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (221 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 95 kg more than 2000 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 63 L |
