1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 624 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
