1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 vs. 1997 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1997 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (186 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 has automatic transmission and 1997 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1997 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | 1997 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | 230.4 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2490 mm |
