1.6 What major changes did Suzuki make to the Samurai during the
time it was sold in America?
Suzuki followed Volkswagen's philosophy with the Beetle in their decision
to design the Samurai to be a good, simple vehicle which they would
refine - not change - over the course of its lifetime. Many refinements
were made over the years, but comparing a 95 to an 86 shows how little
was really changed.
1986: First year offered in the U.S: metal side- and rear-view
mirrors, round dashboard vents, small plastic shifter knobs, 0.795 5th-gear
ratio, 4-pin front differential, carbureted 1324-cc 64-hp engine, triangle-spoke
wheels.
1987: Larger, plastic side- and rear-view mirrors.
1988: "Strange" year for Samurais, as they progessively
implemented changes to 88.5 model year, so not all have every 88.5 changes.
1988.5: Redesigned dashboard with square vents, new leaf springs
with teflon pads and softer ride, thicker anti-sway bar, 0.864 5th-gear
ratio, big rubber shifter knobs, slight change to the grille, bigger
radiator, larger pinion and transfer case driveshaft flanges, round-hole
wheels.
1990: Throttle body fuel injection added to new 1298-cc 66-hp
version of the engine, transmission and transfer case bearings changed
to sealed design, 2-pin front differential, 2-wheel-drive models offered.
1993: New grille design.
1994: Rear seat option removed, last year sold in California.
1995: Last year sold in U.S.A. and Canada.
