2009 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2009 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | M3 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2490 mm |
