2001 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1980 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Toyota Carina (88 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Toyota Carina should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 225 kg more than 1980 Toyota Carina.
Because 2001 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Toyota Carina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1980 Toyota Carina (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Toyota Carina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Suzuki Samurai | 1980 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Suzuki | Toyota |
| Model | Samurai | Carina |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1350 mm |
