1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1230 kg more than 1978 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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 SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 484 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
