2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 990 kg more than 1976 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
