2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (91 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 1998 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 628 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | SL | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 510 HP | 91 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 830 Nm | 202 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 95.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1230 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 |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |