2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 172 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz C 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model C New Beetle
Year Released 2005 2002
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3496 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 268 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 19.0:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 177 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 1378 kg
Vehicle Length 4530 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1520 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 55 L