2003 Nissan Altima vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Nissan Altima 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 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 41 kg more than 2003 Nissan Altima.
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, 2003 Nissan Altima (231 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan Altima | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
