2002 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 340 kg more than 2004 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 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, 2004 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 E (479 Nm) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3224 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 479 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
