1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 80 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 174 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 | 1200 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
