2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 319 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen 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 CLK (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
