1972 Mini MK III vs. 1998 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Suzuki Samurai (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1972 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 320 kg more than 1972 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Mini MK III. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Suzuki Samurai (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1998 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mini MK III | 1998 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mini | Suzuki |
| Model | MK III | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2490 mm |
