1996 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 470 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 2003 Volkswagen New 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Samurai | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92.8 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 | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2510 mm |
