2001 Nissan Maxima vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 2,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Nissan Maxima (222 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 270 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2001 Nissan Maxima (293 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (225 Nm). This means 2001 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2001 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Nissan Maxima | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2956 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 293 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
