2008 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 468 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 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 SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 2013 Volkswagen 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 197 HP |
Torque | 460 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |