2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Suzuki Samurai. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki Samurai would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Because 1997 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, 1997 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 (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Suzuki Samurai. (104 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Samurai |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2490 mm |
