1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2007 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 SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 461 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86.4 mm |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.7 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |