1998 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 7,410 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (612 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 499 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 819 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz E (848 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 678 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7410 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 612 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 848 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 325 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1231 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
