2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 204 kg more than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2490 mm |
