2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 640 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vaneo | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2410 mm |
