2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle

To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (362 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 315 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen 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, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Mercedes-Benz C 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model C Beetle
Year Released 2005 2012
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5439 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 362 HP 200 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5100 RPM
Torque 510 Nm 280 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1695 kg 1380 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 4278 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1808 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1486 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2537 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 55 L