2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1991 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 14 kg more than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Lotus Elise. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 Lotus Elise (181 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1991 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elise | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2490 mm |
