1997 Dodge Copperhead vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1997 Dodge Copperhead is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,700 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Copperhead is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Copperhead (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Copperhead should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Copperhead weights approximately 185 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Dodge Copperhead. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1997 Dodge Copperhead (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Copperhead will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Dodge Copperhead | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Copperhead | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2700 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2490 mm |
