2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 505 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1594 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
