2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 406 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
