1971 Nissan Skyline vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Nissan Skyline (136 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Nissan Skyline weights approximately 190 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Nissan Skyline. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 Nissan Skyline (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Nissan Skyline | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Nissan | Suzuki |
| Model | Skyline | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2490 mm |
