1998 Mazda MPV vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MPV weights approximately 364 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mazda MPV 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 1998 Mazda MPV. 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 (250 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MPV. (228 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MPV | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MPV | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2953 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2520 mm |
