2002 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 850 kg more than 1961 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 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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 E (340 Nm) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 40 L |
