2001 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 15 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 510 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 2001 BMW 318. 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, 2001 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 1986 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 318 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
