1999 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 166 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1481 mm |
