2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 4 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 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 391 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLK | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1274 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |