1988 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2009 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2009 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 425 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.
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, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (335 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. 2009 Toyota RAV4 has automatic transmission and 1988 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1988 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Samurai | 2009 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Toyota |
| Model | Samurai | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2670 mm |
