1993 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz S 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 149 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 667 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 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, 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz S | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
