1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 157 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2537 mm |
