2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 451 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | CLK | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
