2004 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 90 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2004 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Suzuki Samurai | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samurai | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1450 mm |
