1983 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 227 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1983 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Mercedes-Benz S | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Beetle |
Year Released | 1983 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2537 mm |