2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 153 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
