1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. (153 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 has manual transmission. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
