1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1990 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1990 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 116 kg more than 1990 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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, 1990 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 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 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 1990 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1990 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2490 mm |
