1996 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2009 Suzuki Jimny
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,328 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Jimny is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Jimny (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Jimny should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
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, 2009 Suzuki Jimny (110 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Jimny will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Samurai | 2009 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Samurai | Jimny |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1328 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2260 mm |
