1987 Mazda 929 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 929. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 929 weights approximately 36 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1987 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 1987 Mazda 929. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1987 Mazda 929 (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 929 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 929 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 929 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1274 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2340 mm |
