1996 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,324 cc, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 397 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Samurai | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2324 cc |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2590 mm |
