2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 450 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1315 kg more than 1977 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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 S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 714 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2410 mm |
