1995 Mazda RX-01 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1995 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda RX-01 (220 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (169 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 249 kg more than 1995 Mazda RX-01.
Because 1995 Mazda RX-01 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 1995 Mazda RX-01. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda RX-01. (216 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda RX-01.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda RX-01 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-01 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2614 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
