2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 265 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (350 Nm) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | New Beetle | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
