1980 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 680 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Volkswagen Beetle | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Beetle | SLK |
Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 43 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 86 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2431 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |