1997 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2008 BMW 525
To start off, 2008 BMW 525 is newer by 11 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 636 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.
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, 2008 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. 2008 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1997 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1997 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Suzuki Samurai | 2008 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Suzuki | BMW |
| Model | Samurai | 525 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2890 mm |
