1981 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2001 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda RX-7 | 2001 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | RX-7 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2292 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2490 mm |
