2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,148 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1786 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
