2008 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (409 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 379 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 2013 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 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (540 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | New Beetle | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 8 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 409 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4146 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 12 L/100km |
