1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 202 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 730 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New 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, 1999 Volkswagen New 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 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 1274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
