2004 Isuzu Ascender vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2004 Isuzu Ascender is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Isuzu Ascender is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Isuzu Ascender (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Isuzu Ascender should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Isuzu Ascender weights approximately 1350 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Isuzu Ascender is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Isuzu Ascender 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, 2004 Isuzu Ascender (373 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Isuzu Ascender will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Isuzu Ascender | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Isuzu | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascender | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 373 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1920 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3280 mm | 2410 mm |
