2002 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 194 kg more than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Suzuki Samurai | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2510 mm |
