1985 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 321 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 1985 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. 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, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX (235 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1985 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Nissan 300 ZX | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 ZX | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
