1981 Porsche 944 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 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Porsche 944 (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Porsche 944 should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Porsche 944 weights approximately 260 kg more than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. 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 Porsche 944. 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 Porsche 944 (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Porsche 944 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2003 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Porsche | Suzuki |
| Model | 944 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2490 mm |
