2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 322 kg more than 2005 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 E (240 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (171 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
