1988 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz G (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz G | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | G | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
