2005 Nissan Hardbody vs. 1996 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2005 Nissan Hardbody is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Hardbody is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (155 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Hardbody should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Hardbody weights approximately 355 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Nissan Hardbody. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (209 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Hardbody will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Hardbody | 1996 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Nissan | Suzuki |
| Model | Hardbody | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2389 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 930 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2490 mm |
