1985 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 2003 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 280 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 1985 Nissan 300 ZX. 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, 1985 Nissan 300 ZX (235 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Nissan 300 ZX | 2003 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Nissan | Suzuki |
| Model | 300 ZX | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1700 mm |
