1988 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 24 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche (310 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche weights approximately 331 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, 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche (455 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 352 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche 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. 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Samurai | 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche | |
| Make | Suzuki | Chevrolet |
| Model | Samurai | Avalanche |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 5300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 455 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 5630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 3310 mm |
