2009 Mazda CX-9 vs. 1996 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 3,726 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (77 HP @ 5350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 333 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda CX-9. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Vitara 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 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Vitara. 2009 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1996 Suzuki Vitara has manual transmission. 1996 Suzuki Vitara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-9 | 1996 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | CX-9 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3726 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 77 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5350 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 996 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 42 L |
