Suzuki Samurai

[Kota]

My original plan for a toad is my 1970 classic Bronco project. It's a frame off restoration an isn't progressing as fast as I had hoped.

I'm considering a Samurai for the interim. Anybody have any experience with them? Or anything similar?

[dkottum]

I got one and towed it behind our (really) '95 VW camper 5 cylinder, 5 spd manual from Arizona to Minnesota, as well as a few other short trips. I put the transfer case and the transmission in neutral, and unlocked the steering with the ignition key. Very easy to tow, weighs about 1800 lbs.

Someone later told me that I should start the engine and rotate the gearbox to be sure all is lubricated in there from time to time, so it won't lock up from dry bearings. You might research that.

The Samurai is a great off-road vehicle and runabout. Very poor handling and power for highway travel at today's speed limits plus the speed they really drive.

We still have it and drive it every day in our rural community. Nothing has ever broke on it in the six years or so we've had it. Also had a new one in 1989 and it was trouble-free.

doug k

[Waipio Rim]

I bought a 2001 Grand Vitara 4x4 5 spd new as a commuter car and drove it for 189k with very few issues. A little bigger and heavier than a Samurai, but got a true 25 mpg, drove fine at highway speeds, and was very capable off road. The woman that I sold it to lets her young son drive it, but it is still on the road.