2002 Nissan Altima vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (338 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Altima | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
