2003 Suzuki Samurai vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 2 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 134 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2.
Because 2003 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 2. 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, 2012 Mazda 2 (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Suzuki Samurai | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mazda |
| Model | Samurai | 2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1475 mm |
