1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 24 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 451 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 2013 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1381 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2651 mm |
