2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 5,506 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 885 kg more than 1999 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 S (801 Nm) has 653 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | S | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5506 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2091 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
