2008 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 562 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2410 mm |
