1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2005 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2005 Subaru Outback is newer by 16 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 2,455 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Subaru Outback weights approximately 560 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, 2005 Subaru Outback (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. 2005 Subaru Outback has automatic transmission and 1989 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1989 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2005 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Suzuki | Subaru |
| Model | Samurai | Outback |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2660 mm |
