2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 448 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1983 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 | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |