1998 Ford Laser vs. 1986 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1998 Ford Laser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Laser (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Laser weights approximately 185 kg more than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Laser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1998 Ford Laser (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Laser | 1986 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Laser | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2040 mm |
