1986 Suzuki Jimny vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Suzuki Jimny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Suzuki Jimny would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 465 kg more than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Suzuki Jimny | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimny | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 538 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
