1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1970 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,605 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volkswagen K 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Volkswagen K 70 (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Volkswagen K 70 should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Volkswagen K 70. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1970 Volkswagen K 70 (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1970 Volkswagen K 70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 1970 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2700 mm |
