2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1986 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 17 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), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 435 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 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (151 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1986 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Chrysler | Suzuki |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
