1998 Suzuki Vitara vs. 2011 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Routan is newer by 13 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (79 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1088 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 2011 Volkswagen Routan. 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, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Vitara. 2011 Volkswagen Routan has automatic transmission and 1998 Suzuki Vitara has manual transmission. 1998 Suzuki Vitara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Vitara | 2011 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | Routan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1953 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 3078 mm |
