1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,735 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 750 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.
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, 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara (231 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2002 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Samurai | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2810 mm |
