1997 Nissan Sunny vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sunny would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sunny. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 380 kg more than 1997 Nissan Sunny. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sunny. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sunny. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Sunny has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Sunny will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Sunny | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sunny | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2537 mm |
