1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 2003 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Suzuki Samurai (62 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 75 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Nissan Laurel. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Nissan Laurel (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Laurel | 2003 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Nissan | Suzuki |
| Model | Laurel | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1700 mm |
