2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (155 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 88 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2001 Volkswagen 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (230 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | C | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
