1976 Suzuki LJ 50 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 406 kg more than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer significantly more control. 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 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 has manual transmission. 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | LJ 50 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
| Engine Size | 797 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1940 mm | 2520 mm |
