1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 897 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
