2003 Suzuki Samurai vs. 1979 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Toyota Corolla (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 360 kg more than 1979 Toyota Corolla.
Because 2003 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Toyota Corolla. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, both vehicles can yield 116 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Suzuki Samurai | 1979 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Suzuki | Toyota |
| Model | Samurai | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1452 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1400 mm |
