2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 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 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, 2003 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 E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
