2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 37 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
