2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 12 kg more than 1998 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1998 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, 1998 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 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1998 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 62 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1700 mm |
