1999 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 5 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1999 Suzuki Samurai 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, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Suzuki Samurai | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1490 mm |
