2008 Suzuki Jimny vs. 2003 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,869 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki Jimny (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. (63 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Jimny should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Suzuki Jimny weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Suzuki Samurai (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Jimny. (110 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Suzuki Jimny | 2003 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Jimny | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1328 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2490 mm |
