2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 203 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
