1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1380 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | T5 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 3010 mm |
