2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2004 Mazda 3 (184 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
