1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 15 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 39 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2004 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, 2004 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2004 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| 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 | 1085 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 |
