1986 Suzuki Jimny vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Suzuki Jimny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Suzuki Jimny would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 394 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen W12. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 667 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1986 Suzuki Jimny has manual transmission. 1986 Suzuki Jimny will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Suzuki Jimny | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimny | W12 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 538 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2550 mm |
