1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 735 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLK | Beetle |
Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |