2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 1 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 74 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
