1989 Suzuki Jimny vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Jimny | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimny | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1977 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 537 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2410 mm |
