1981 Suzuki Jimny vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Jimny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Jimny would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 535 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Jimny | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimny | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2590 mm |
