1971 Mazda 818 vs. 1994 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1994 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mazda 818 (80 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1994 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 1994 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 120 kg more than 1971 Mazda 818.
Because 1994 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mazda 818. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1971 Mazda 818 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Mazda 818 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mazda 818 | 1994 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 818 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2490 mm |
