2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 340 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | E | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |