2005 Nissan Hardbody vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Nissan Hardbody. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Nissan Hardbody would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Hardbody is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (155 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Hardbody should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 29 kg more than 2005 Nissan Hardbody.
Because 2005 Nissan Hardbody 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 Hardbody. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Nissan Hardbody. (209 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Nissan Hardbody.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Hardbody | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Hardbody | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2389 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.6 seconds | 12.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1314 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.4 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 55 L |
