2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 would be higher. At 2,950 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (227 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 weights approximately 292 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C30 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C30 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2950 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 97 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
