2002 Nissan Maxima vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2002 Nissan Maxima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Maxima (252 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 309 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen 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 Maxima (335 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (171 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 2002 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Nissan Maxima | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxima | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
