2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 705 kg more than 2004 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New 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 SL (460 Nm) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 302 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 460 Nm | 166 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1905 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |