Suzuki SJ Softtop 1982-
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I would pay ten times for the amount of fun

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Parts are expensive if you can't find the right supplier, cheap insurance, tax, and fuel costs though

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Can be hard work due to lack of power steering, but good visibility and a lot of fun!

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    1.3 is very revvy, twin choke carbs mean lively acceleration for such a small engine

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Beach driving followed immediately by motorway driving does not work well - avoid this and you'll be fine.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    People can't help, but look and it suits well to so many lifestyles (beach-bum, off roader, horse rider, surfer, student, etc )

    Comfort

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Adequate if you've got a good bum. Don't buy for constant motorway runs - although they are survivable (just)

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Leave it muddy and no-one seems to go near it. Soft-top is easy to get through, but the bonnet catch being hidden in the lockable glove box is useful if you have an alarm fitted, as it can't be switched off without the key.

    Service

    5 out of 5 5.0

    My local Suzuki dealership seems very interested in keeping up to date with me and my Samurai

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Carb went dodgy after a poor service, which eventually resulted in a diesel engine conversion!

    Other

    Drive system doesn't like a mixture of sand and high speed, keep the underside clean for longer journeys

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes