2002 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 6 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 2002 Suzuki Samurai 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, 2002 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Suzuki Samurai | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2480 mm |
