1991 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (108 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 187 kg more than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Suzuki Samurai | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1123 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
