2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (160 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 10 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | Beetle |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |