1997 Suzuki Vitara vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1317 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Suzuki Vitara | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 77 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
