2003 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Suzuki Samurai (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 300 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Suzuki Samurai (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Suzuki Samurai | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
Model | Samurai | Passat |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 116 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 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 | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1370 mm |