2001 Panoz AIV vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Panoz AIV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Panoz AIV would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Panoz AIV (301 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Panoz AIV 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 183 kg more than 2001 Panoz AIV.
Because 2001 Panoz AIV 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 2001 Panoz AIV. 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, 2001 Panoz AIV (407 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (235 Nm). This means 2001 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Panoz AIV | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Panoz | Volkswagen |
| Model | AIV | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4600 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
