2006 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (232 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | New Beetle | SL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2475 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 232 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
