2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 464 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1695 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
