1998 Suzuki Vitara vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 294 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Vitara | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 77 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
