1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 22 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 2,461 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 (235 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 40 kg more 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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190. (246 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 190 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 235 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
