1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (101 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 240 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3005 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 78 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 86.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |