2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (62 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 40 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Samurai. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Suzuki Samurai | |
Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Samurai |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1670 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2490 mm |