2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 115 kg more than 2004 Mazda 2. 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
