1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Polo 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) has 29 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 228 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. 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 1983 Volkswagen Polo. 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1989 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2400 mm |
