1975 Mazda 818 vs. 1998 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 68 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mazda 818 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1998 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Mazda 818. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mazda 818 | 1998 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 818 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2490 mm |
