1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 63 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 180 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
