1983 Suzuki Jimny vs. 2002 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2002 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Suzuki Jimny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Suzuki Jimny would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Suzuki Samurai (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1983 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1983 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 490 kg more than 1983 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Suzuki Samurai (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Suzuki Jimny | 2002 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Jimny | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
