1980 Suzuki Jimny vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 32 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 588 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 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki Jimny. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 1980 Suzuki Jimny has manual transmission. 1980 Suzuki Jimny will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Suzuki Jimny | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimny | GTI |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 970 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2578 mm |
