2001 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit (70 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 375 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Because 2001 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Suzuki Samurai (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2001 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 2001 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Suzuki Samurai | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1420 mm |
