1990 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Nissan 300 ZX (279 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 337 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1990 Nissan 300 ZX (376 Nm) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1990 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Nissan 300 ZX | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 ZX | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
