1996 Mazda RX-01 vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (149 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda RX-01. (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-01 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | RX-01 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
