1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1184 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 470 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2410 mm |