1991 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 239 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 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1991 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1991 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Suzuki Samurai | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2590 mm |
