Hey there, Suzuki-fan! I am busy building out this resource. The plan is to build out this page or create a separate category just on the Samurai.
In the meantime, I started with YouTube videos on my 1988 Suzuki Samurai which you can check out here.
The Suzuki Samurai, also known as the Jimny or SJ413, is a compact, lightweight, and versatile off-road vehicle that has gained a cult following among offroading enthusiasts. For now, here are some interesting facts about the Suzuki Samurai:
The Suzuki Samurai is a small, two-door, 4×4 vehicle with a body-on-frame design. It is known for its compact size, excellent maneuverability, and impressive off-road capabilities. The Samurai features a fold-able soft-top or removable hardtop, making it adaptable to various driving environments and weather conditions. Its minimalist design and rugged appearance have made it an iconic and sought-after vehicle in the off-road segment.
Brief History of the Suzuki Samurai
History: The Suzuki Samurai is the fourth generation of the Suzuki Jimny series, which began production in 1968. The Samurai was introduced in 1981 as the SJ413, an evolution of the previous SJ410 model. It was originally sold under the name “Suzuki SJ” in most markets, but in the United States, it was marketed as the Suzuki Samurai starting in 1985.
Suzuki Samurai in Different Markets
The Suzuki Samurai was sold in various markets around the world under different names. In the United States, it was introduced as the Suzuki Samurai in 1985. In other markets, it was commonly referred to as the Suzuki SJ413 or Jimny. In some European countries, it was sold under the name Santana Samurai, as it was manufactured by the Spanish company Santana Motors under a licensing agreement with Suzuki. The Samurai gained popularity in several countries due to its affordable price and excellent off-road capabilities.
Suzuki Samurai Specifications
The Samurai was powered by a 1.3-liter inline-four engine, producing around 63 horsepower and 76 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 5-speed manual transmission, four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, and solid front and rear axles with leaf spring suspension.
The Samurai had a wheelbase of 79.9 inches, an overall length of 135 inches, and a curb weight of approximately 2,100 lbs. Its compact dimensions and lightweight design contributed to its off-road prowess and maneuverability.
| Specification | 1988 Suzuki Samurai |
|---|---|
| Body Style | 2-door convertible soft-top/ 2-door hardtop |
| Engine | 1.3L (1324cc) inline 4-cylinder (SOHC) |
| Power Output | 63 hp @ 6,000 RPM |
| Torque Output | 76 lb-ft @ 3,500 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / optional 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (Four-wheel drive) |
| Length | 135.0 inches (3,429 mm) |
| Width | 60.2 inches (1,529 mm) |
| Height | 65.6 inches (1,666 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 79.9 inches (2,029 mm) |
| Curb Weight | 2,094 lbs (950 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 10.6 gallons (40 liters) |
| Fuel Economy (City) | 25 MPG (approximate) |
| Fuel Economy (Highway) | 28 MPG (approximate) |
| Tires | P205/70R15 |
Pro’s and Con’s of the Suzuki Samurai
Love them or hate them, the Suzuki Samurai creates interest wherever they are spotted. Here are some of the pro’s and con’s of these funny little offroaders:
Pro’s
- Excellent off-road capabilities due to its lightweight design, solid axles, and short wheelbase
- Affordable price, making it accessible for a wide range of buyers
- Iconic and rugged appearance
- Simple and easy-to-maintain mechanical components
Con’s
- Limited power from the 1.3-liter engine, which can make highway driving a challenge
- Cramped interior space, especially for taller drivers and passengers
- Basic features and amenities compared to more modern off-road vehicles
- Safety concerns, as it lacked many of the safety features common in newer vehicles, such as airbags and anti-lock brakes
Despite some drawbacks, the Suzuki Samurai remains a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts due to its impressive capabilities and iconic design.
If you have any questions or want to share any Samurai-related stuff, please email me at info@adventurebiketroop.com
Cheers,
Francois