2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 575 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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, 1989 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 (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 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 1989 Suzuki Samurai. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1989 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1989 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Chrysler | Suzuki |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
