1982 Suzuki Alto vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1982 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1982 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 768 kg more than 1982 Suzuki Alto. 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Suzuki Alto | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2710 mm |
