2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (169 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 825 kg more than 1980 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 E (250 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | E | Beetle |
Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |