1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (178 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 371 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (255 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 14.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
