1989 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2011 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2011 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai Elantra (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Hyundai Elantra. 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 Hyundai Elantra (177 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. 2011 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Samurai | 2011 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Suzuki | Hyundai |
| Model | Samurai | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2700 mm |
