2008 Suzuki Jimny vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Suzuki Jimny. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 2008 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Jimny 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 Volkswagen Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Jimny. (110 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Suzuki Jimny | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimny | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1328 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
