2003 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 162 kg more than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. 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 2011 Volkswagen T5. 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Suzuki Samurai | 2011 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | T5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1869 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 3410 mm |
