1985 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 500 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz G. (193 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz G. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1985 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz G | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2537 mm |
