1988 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1996 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1996 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer would be higher. At 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer (83 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1996 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Suzuki |
| Model | Lancer | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2490 mm |
