2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. Both 2009 Mazda 3 and 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 14 kg more than 2009 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
