1983 BMW 325 vs. 1986 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1986 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 325 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 BMW 325. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1983 BMW 325 (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 325 | 1986 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 325 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
