2003 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 685 kg more than 2008 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, 2008 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 (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 580 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 800 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2025 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |