1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 23 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 450 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 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1989 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1989 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2537 mm |
