1973 Mazda 818 vs. 2002 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2002 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda 818 (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 2002 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 206 kg more than 1973 Mazda 818.
Because 2002 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mazda 818. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Suzuki Samurai (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda 818 | 2002 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 818 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1270 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2490 mm |
