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 2,236 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (104 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 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 132 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 (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 36 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 | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Top Speed | 130 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1297 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 |
