1997 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2012 Suzuki Kizashi
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is newer by 15 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki Kizashi (185 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki Kizashi should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Suzuki Kizashi weights approximately 540 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 2012 Suzuki Kizashi. 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, 2012 Suzuki Kizashi (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki Kizashi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Suzuki Samurai | 2012 Suzuki Kizashi | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Samurai | Kizashi |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4651 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2700 mm |
