1991 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 311 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 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2580 mm |
