1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 150 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.8 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
