2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2004 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2490 mm |
