Off-roading may seem like an activity that hasn't been around for that long, but as it turns out, it traces its roots all the way back to the early days in American automotive history. In fact, the Ford Model T was particularly known for its off-roading prowess. Sure, it wasn't tearing up terrain even close to the way that modern vehicles can today, but seeing black and white off-roading footage is still pretty damn cool.
The folks over The Fast Lane Truck YouTube channel may have never gone as far back as the '20s, but they still appreciate off-roading nostalgia in all its glory. In an episode of "Cheap Jeep Challenge," the TFL Truck team sought the answer to one important question: Did off-roading in the '80s suck or not?
For this throwback match-up, we head to the Rocky Mountains to see a 1987 Suzuki Samurai take on a 1988 Jeep Comanche. Before you get to see what '80s-style off-roading looks like, let's take a look at what both vehicles were working with.
First up, here's a brief specs overview of the Samurai.
It has a small carbureted engine with about 70 horsepower, solid axles, a frame, and 26-inch tires. What it lacks in size and power, it makes up in light weight and charm.
As for the Comanche, this baby was built to be an absolute beast on range trails.
This truck has a 6-foot bed, and straight six engine, a modern 3-inch Teraflex lift, Falcon shocks, and 33-inch BFGoodrich KM3 tires.
Oh yea, the Comanche also has a new exhaust system that makes the mighty Jeep engine sound very mean.
So, which ride takes the W in the end? You'll have to watch to find out!
This post was originally published on July 16, 2019.
Read More: Here's Why Off-Road Vehicles Aren't That Hard to Come By (Especially If You Create Your Own)
