1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 152 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 1980 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 1980 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
