2008 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 12 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 810 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1996 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | X3 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2490 mm |
