2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 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 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 600 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen 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, 2009 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | E | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2604 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 174 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Torque | 425 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |