2008 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen New 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 154 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 254 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 2006 Volkswagen New 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 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | R | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
