1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 (240 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 242 kg more than 2002 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 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 500 (401 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | 500 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1378 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |