1979 Isuzu 117 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1979 Isuzu 117. (72 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 168 kg more than 1979 Isuzu 117. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Isuzu 117 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 1979 Isuzu 117. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Isuzu 117. (139 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Isuzu 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu 117 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | 117 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2236 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 55 L |
