2012 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1978 Isuzu Bellett
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Isuzu Bellett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Isuzu Bellett would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1978 Isuzu Bellett. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1978 Isuzu Bellett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 378 kg more than 1978 Isuzu Bellett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Isuzu Bellett 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 Isuzu Bellett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Isuzu Bellett. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Isuzu Bellett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | 1978 Isuzu Bellett | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Isuzu |
| Model | Beetle | Bellett |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1816 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1333 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4278 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1808 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1486 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2537 mm | 2410 mm |
