1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,839 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (205 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 (315 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 380 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3839 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
