1999 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 429 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 604 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 489 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | New Beetle | E |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1443 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
