1998 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1499 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | New Beetle | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
