1986 Maserati 420 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Maserati 420 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Maserati 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Maserati 420 (217 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 117 kg more than 1986 Maserati 420.
Because 1986 Maserati 420 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 1986 Maserati 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1986 Maserati 420 (258 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Maserati 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Maserati 420 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | 420 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
