2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 349 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen 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 E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
