1980 Suzuki Jimny vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Suzuki Jimny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Suzuki Jimny would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 470 kg more than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Suzuki Jimny 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Suzuki Jimny | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimny | Golf |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2520 mm |
