2006 Mercedes-Benz GL vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1150 kg more than 2004 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 GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (700 Nm) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | GL | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2550 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
