2001 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1987 Nissan Santana
To start off, 2001 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Nissan Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Nissan Santana (93 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Nissan Santana should accelerate faster than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan Santana weights approximately 140 kg more than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Nissan Santana. 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, 1987 Nissan Santana (143 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Nissan Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Suzuki Samurai. 1987 Nissan Santana has automatic transmission and 2001 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 2001 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Nissan Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Suzuki Samurai | 1987 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Suzuki | Nissan |
| Model | Samurai | Santana |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1987 |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3450 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2560 mm |
