2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 120 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SLK | New Beetle |
Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 168 HP |
Torque | 240 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 90.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |