2003 Ascari KZ1 vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Ascari KZ1 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ascari KZ1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ascari KZ1 (500 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 385 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ascari KZ1 should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ascari KZ1 weights approximately 19 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ascari KZ1 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 2003 Ascari KZ1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2003 Ascari KZ1 (550 Nm) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Ascari KZ1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ascari KZ1 | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ascari | Volkswagen |
| Model | KZ1 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 550 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 321 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1852 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1138 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2636 mm | 2520 mm |
