1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 355 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
