2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1630 kg more than 2001 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 E (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz E 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen
Model E New Beetle
Year Released 2009 2001
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 101 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5900 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 148 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.1 mm 86.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.1:1 12.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 2830 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1490 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1830 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 55 L