1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (113 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 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 70 kg more than 2006 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
