2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 165 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (359 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | New Beetle | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2323 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
