1988 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 5 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. 2002 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1988 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Samurai | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2512 mm |
