1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1975 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Suzuki Samurai (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 110 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1989 Suzuki Samurai (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 1975 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1975 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
