1996 Suzuki Vitara vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (67 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 61 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1996 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Vitara 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Vitara | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2510 mm |
