1996 Suzuki Vitara vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (86 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 41 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Vitara 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (216 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Vitara | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1401 kg |
