2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS (288 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 475 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (365 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | CLS | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1422 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 288 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |