1988 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1988 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Suzuki Samurai (62 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 285 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Samurai 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, 1988 Suzuki Samurai (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Samurai | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1980 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
