2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 331 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Chrysler | Suzuki |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1441 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2490 mm |
