2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 635 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 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 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 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 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model S New Beetle
Year Released 2002 2003
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4266 cc 1422 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 275 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 401 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 75.6 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1895 kg 1260 kg
Vehicle Length 5170 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 3090 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 55 L


 

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