2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 454 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 SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 SLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.6 seconds | 14.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
