1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 260 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |