2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 379 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 247 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 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 S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 630 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | S | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2510 mm |