1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 295 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1988 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
