1979 Isuzu 117 vs. 1997 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1997 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 2,236 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Isuzu 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Isuzu 117 (72 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Isuzu 117 should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Isuzu 117 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Isuzu 117. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1979 Isuzu 117 (139 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Isuzu 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Isuzu 117 | 1997 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Isuzu | Suzuki |
| Model | 117 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2236 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2490 mm |
