2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 324 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 1993 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 1993 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1993 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | New Beetle | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
