1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, both 1989 Mazda 323 and 1989 Suzuki Samurai were released in the same year (1989). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 68 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
