1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 26 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190. (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 180 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1808 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
