2003 Saab 03-Sep vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (250 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 327 kg more than 2006 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (370 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Saab 03-Sep | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 03-Sep | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
