2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 490 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1691 kg more than 1994 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 SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 SL (1,000 Nm) has 835 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | SL | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 605 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 1000 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
