1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 312 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
