1999 Suzuki Wagon R+ vs. 1978 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+ is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Volkswagen 1302 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+ (64 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+ should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+ weights approximately 120 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen 1302 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1978 Volkswagen 1302 (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+. (80 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Volkswagen 1302 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Suzuki Wagon R+ | 1978 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wagon R+ | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
