2002 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (167 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 177 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 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, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (170 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
