2006 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 950 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 ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | ML | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2210 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
