1994 Alfa Romeo RZ vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ weights approximately 120 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ 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 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1994 Alfa Romeo RZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

1994 Alfa Romeo RZ 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Alfa Romeo Volkswagen
Model RZ New Beetle
Year Released 1994 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2959 cc 1422 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 208 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1380 kg 1260 kg
Vehicle Length 4070 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1500 mm