2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1986 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 20 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 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1986 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Samurai. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1986 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1986 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1986 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | RX-8 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2040 mm |
