2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 10 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 75 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 515 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Beetle |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |