1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK weights approximately 1355 kg more than 1980 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 GLK is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK will offer significantly more control. 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 GLK (336 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz GLK | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GLK | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2175 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1630 mm |
