2004 GMC Sonoma vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 GMC Sonoma is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 GMC Sonoma (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 GMC Sonoma should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 GMC Sonoma weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 GMC Sonoma will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 GMC Sonoma (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2004 GMC Sonoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 GMC Sonoma | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonoma | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
