1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 227 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 280 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |