2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1986 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 2,350 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse (146 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 475 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1986 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Suzuki |
| Model | Eclipse | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2350 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2040 mm |
