2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 126 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (186 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
