2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 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, 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SLK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
