1986 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 209 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Suzuki Samurai | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mazda |
| Model | Samurai | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3440 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 48 L |
