2009 Kia Rondo vs. 1996 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rondo (198 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rondo weights approximately 355 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Rondo. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Kia Rondo (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rondo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Samurai. 2009 Kia Rondo has automatic transmission and 1996 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1996 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rondo | 1996 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Kia | Suzuki |
| Model | Rondo | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Minivan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
