2009 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 205 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen 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 B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
