1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 240 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
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 (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
