1981 Suzuki Fronte vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Fronte. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Fronte would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (29 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 795 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Fronte. (41 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Fronte.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Fronte | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fronte | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 543 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 41 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2510 mm |
