1997 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2004 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Toyota MR2 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Toyota MR2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2004 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Suzuki Samurai | 2004 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Toyota |
| Model | Samurai | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2610 mm |
