2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 517 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
