2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 742 kg more than 1999 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 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, 1999 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 S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
