1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 7 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (184 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 372 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 1996 BMW Z3. 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, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | Z3 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2490 mm |
