1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 6 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1264 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |