2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2012 Nissan NV

To start off, 2012 Nissan NV is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Nissan NV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan NV (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NV should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan NV weights approximately 1478 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 Nissan NV is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Nissan NV. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Nissan NV (381 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (166 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan NV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 2012 Nissan NV
Make Volkswagen Nissan
Model New Beetle NV
Year Released 2004 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 4000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 115 HP 261 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 166 Nm 381 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 2678 kg
Vehicle Length 4100 mm 6111 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 2029 mm
Vehicle Height 1510 mm 2131 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 3711 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 106 L