1998 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 50 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
