2005 Nissan 350Z vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan 350Z (287 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 112 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.
Because 2005 Nissan 350Z 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 2005 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2005 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan 350Z | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 287 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
