1986 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 196 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200. 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) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200. (173 Nm). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1264 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2510 mm |
