2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | R | Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 268 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |