1998 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 432 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 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Samurai | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
