1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2003 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 14 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Suzuki Vitara (77 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 60 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, 2003 Suzuki Vitara (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2003 Suzuki Vitara | |
Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
Model | Samurai | Vitara |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Body Type | SUV | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1590 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 68 HP | 77 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 990 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2490 mm |