1973 Peugeot 304 vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Suzuki Samurai (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1973 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1973 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Peugeot 304. 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, 1989 Suzuki Samurai (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1989 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Peugeot 304 | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Peugeot | Suzuki |
| Model | 304 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2490 mm |
