1986 Mazda 929 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mazda 929 (190 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mazda 929 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1986 Mazda 929 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 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 Mazda 929 (259 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1986 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. 1986 Mazda 929 has automatic transmission and 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mazda 929 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mazda 929 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 929 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2953 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
