2006 Nissan 350Z vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 100 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 330 kg more than 2012 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, 2012 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | 350Z | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2000 cc |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
