1993 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1240 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm) has 393 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz S | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
