2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 495 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Beetle |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5441 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 494 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |