1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2011 Ford Escape
To start off, 2011 Ford Escape is newer by 22 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Escape weights approximately 536 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.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Ford Escape. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2011 Ford Escape (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. 2011 Ford Escape 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. 2011 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2011 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Suzuki | Ford |
| Model | Samurai | Escape |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1466 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2619 mm |
