One of the drawbacks of most off-roaders is that they are quite big. That limits their ability to access tight locations. However, that shouldn’t be a problem with this 1988 Suzuki Samurai. Its modest exterior dimensions will allow it to squeeze through gaps that would defeat larger vehicles, and its dual-range transfer case confirms it is a genuine contender when the going gets tough. The seller has listed the Suzuki here on eBay in Mesa, Arizona. Bidding sits below the reserve at $3,550 with a BIN option of $15,994 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.
After hitting North American showrooms for the 1986 model year, Suzuki’s SJ-Series Samurai remained on sale until the end of 1995. The latest offering featured more modern styling than its predecessor, and won praise not only for its surprising interior space, but also for its relatively short overhangs at either end. That feature allowed the Samurai to tackle some quite steep approach and descent angles, enhancing its off-road ability. This 1988 Suzuki presents nicely in Polar White with subtle contrasting Silver and Charcoal stripes. The panels have a couple of small bumps, and apart from some minor chips and scratches, the paint’s healthy shine makes a positive impression. Delving beneath the vehicle reveals surface corrosion on some mechanical components, but also confirms that the floors are rock-solid. The seller’s image gallery reveals a few developing areas of minor rust in the front fenders and rear quarter panels, but there appears to be no danger that this Suzuki is about to turn into Swiss cheese. The problems all appear patchable, and the buyer could tackle them as time and circumstances permit. The trim and glass are impressive for a vehicle of this type and age, and the 15″ color-matched wheels with sparkling trim rings provide the perfect finishing touch.
Although originally designed to meet domestic Kei-Car regulations, Suzuki increased almost every dimension of the Samurai to boost foreign sales. The engine bay was no exception, with this survivor featuring a 1,324cc four-cylinder engine. That year’s Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 64hp and 74 ft/lbs, which feed to Planet Earth via a five-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and manual locking front hubs. Being diplomatic, it would be accurate to describe the power and torque figures as modest. However, with the Samurai’s curb weight barely topping 2,000 lbs, its performance is surprisingly lively in most circumstances. Unfortunately, the seller supplies no information in their listing regarding this classic’s mechanical condition. However, the engine bay is clean, and with no evidence of fluid leaks in the underside shots, I suspect that this Suzuki is a turnkey proposition.
I would typically look at a vehicle of this type with front bucket seats and a rear bench and describe it as a five-seater. Sure, this Samurai could accommodate that many people, but life would be far more pleasant if they chose to only seat two in the back. Trimmed in Gray Cloth and contrasting Black vinyl, the presentation is extremely tidy. The seats exhibit no significant wear, nor does the carpet. The dash looks excellent, and a Clarion AM/FM radio/cassette player provides in-car entertainment. It isn’t luxurious, with no air conditioning or power accessories. I did notice deterioration on some plastic surfaces due to age and UV exposure, but the appearance is acceptable for a survivor-grade classic.
The tiny dimensions and modest four-cylinder engine would make it easy to dismiss this 1988 Suzuki Samurai, and to scoff at the idea that it is a genuine off-roader. However, that would be a mistake. In 2009, Top Gear UK aired its Bolivia Special. James May chose a Samurai to trek from the wilds of the Amazon rainforest to Chile’s Pacific Coast. The only issue the vehicle experienced was water in the fuel after the Samurai was accidentally submerged during a river crossing. Cleaning the system resolved the problem, and the Suzuki comfortably completed the journey without further incidents. That was an impressive feat, demonstrating that these classics can successfully tackle almost everything thrown at them. Therefore, if you plan to delve deep into the wilderness, this Samurai could be ideal for that adventure.
Great little tough rigs that can get you where you need to go off road and in snow.
Had my 1948 Standard Eight for sale in London in 1994 and a guy had a LHD Samurai for sale- we made a deal and he took the Standard and I took the Samurai. Drove it from London to Athens. Day 1 London-Paris on the 4th or 5th train through the newly opened tunnel. Day 2 Paris-Nice. Day 3 Nice-Rome. Day 4 Rome-Bari. Day 5 overnight ferry Bari to Patra and on to Athens. Ran flat out all 5 days at 80 mph and never missed a beat. Used it in Greece for a year. Probably the most reliable and fun car I’ve ever had.
These are simple, rugged, reliable and competent back country vehicles. I have had two so far, and currently use a similar tin top as an almost daily driver. Rather uncomfortable and not so good out on the highway. Too slow. But there really isn’t a better off road rig than a Samurai.
I bought one in 88, they couldn’t sell them because of a roll over scare, you could get one for under 5K. 15K asking price? I wish I still had mine, tough little rig.
I was just thinking the same thing: you could have bought at least 2 of these new for the price of this one.
Beautiful looking Suzuki. I remember when this was offered in the USA. I was hoping to buy one for personal use. I wanted something that’s comfortable, while also being utilitarian, while also being durable enough for everyday use. The problem was that it was too easy to flip it over. I reckon if driven carefully and not aggressive, you’d have no such problem.
Having owned 2 US-based Samurais, I find the fear of rollover to be exaggerated. I have used mine for average off-roading, including several tilt-angle situations, and never felt it was going to tip over.
They do tend to be slow, and the stock suspension can be harsh. I discovered that Old Man Emu suspensions deliver better on-road ride quality and improve off-road capability.
These are stout, reliable, and fun to drive 4x4s.
Careful driving, that’s the key. I’ve driven many SUVs in my driving career, and thus far, I’ve not had any roll-over accidents. I’ve had a few rear end collisions, I’ve rear ended drivers, but so far, thankfully, never roll-overs.
These are cool and in South Asia I think they are used quite a bit for off roading and have a bit of a following. They make a neat 1/10 scale RC version that’s not too expensive by WPL but it is the Jimny, not Samurai.
Where the hell do these names come from? Here in the USA, Canada, possibly Mexico, it’s called the Samurai, but in Japan, China, other countries, it’s called the Jimny. What the…?!
These are great!!! I drove one in my early 20’s and have wanted one ever since. They’re great off road and great around town too. This one looks great. The one ai drove never felt tipsy at all.
I used to sell these. The dealer I worked for leased a small off road course from a private landowner. Once they came back to the dealership they would sign on the dotted line. 16K for this one is too much.
I’m currently in New Zealand and loving these 2 and 4 door Jimny’s I see here. I especially like the 4 door in a five speed manual transmission. Wish they were legal for North America. I think this latest body style debuted in 2023.
As we all know by now .$15,000 for one of these , and a rusty one at that . Is just silly .