2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 247 kg more than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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, 2005 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Suzuki Samurai. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2490 mm |
