1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 11 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 497 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2009 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 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
