2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (141 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 881 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 Viano (344 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Viano | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2046 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
