1999 Suzuki Vitara vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Suzuki Vitara (79 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 164 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Vitara.
Because 1999 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Suzuki Vitara (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Suzuki Vitara | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vitara | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2480 mm |
