1972 AMC Javelin vs. 1986 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1986 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Javelin. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Javelin would be higher. At 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Javelin is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Javelin (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Javelin should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Javelin weights approximately 570 kg more than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Javelin. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1972 AMC Javelin (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Javelin will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Javelin | 1986 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | AMC | Suzuki |
| Model | Javelin | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 130 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
