2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1995 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1995 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1995 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1225 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2490 mm |
