1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 603 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Samurai | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1533 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2210 mm |
