2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 454 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New 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, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | E | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 113 HP |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
