1998 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1970 Volkswagen 411
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 411. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 411 would be higher. At 1,679 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volkswagen 411 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Volkswagen 411 (80 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Volkswagen 411 should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volkswagen 411 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Volkswagen 411. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1970 Volkswagen 411 (131 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1970 Volkswagen 411 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Samurai | 1970 Volkswagen 411 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | 411 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1679 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
