1988 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1983 Volvo 240
To start off, 1988 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volvo 240 (81 HP @ 4650 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volvo 240 should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volvo 240 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Volvo 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Volvo 240 (139 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1983 Volvo 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Samurai | 1983 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volvo |
| Model | Samurai | 240 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2315 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2660 mm |
