2003 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, both 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle were released in the same year (2003). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 785 kg more than 2003 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (345 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 345 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2185 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
