1982 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 300 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1982 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1982 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1422 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |