1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (171 Nm). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
