1999 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1968 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,583 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Suzuki Samurai (69 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1999 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Volkswagen 1600. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1968 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1968 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Suzuki Samurai | 1968 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1583 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
