1998 Suzuki Vitara vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Suzuki Vitara (77 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 170 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Suzuki Vitara (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Vitara | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1976 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1283 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 77 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2410 mm |
