2008 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1997 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 813 kg more than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe (335 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1997 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Hyundai | Suzuki |
| Model | Santa Fe | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2188 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
