1988 Suzuki Alto vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 621 kg more than 1988 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Alto | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 547 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
