2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 510 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |