1989 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 187 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 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz S | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2599 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 95 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
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 | 1520 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2537 mm |