1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 2400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 171 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
