1993 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1993 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1993 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 246 kg more than 1993 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Suzuki Samurai | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mazda |
| Model | Samurai | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2329 mm |
