1998 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 11 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 2,460 cc, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 294 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 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle. 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, 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle (341 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle has automatic transmission and 1998 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1998 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Samurai | 2009 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2460 cc |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 3010 mm |
