1978 Peugeot 305 vs. 2001 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Peugeot 305 (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 305 should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 250 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Because 2001 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Peugeot 305. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Suzuki Samurai (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (96 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Peugeot 305 | 2001 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Peugeot | Suzuki |
| Model | 305 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
