1996 Suzuki Jimny
Chassis: JA22W117894
Twin Cam 658cc K6A engine
Selectable 4WD with Multi-option Transfer Case
163,000Km (101,000 Miles)
1VN Mercury Silver Metallic
Asking $11,995
This is a Suzuki Jimny Wild Wind, marketed as a fun, around town key car in Japan, and also known as the Suzuki Samurai in the U.S. These Kei SUV’s really have no limit to what you can do with them. Offered with Selectable 4WD, the Jimny has been known to be a great off-roader, winter commuter, or just every day daily driver.
Being that it is a kei class vehicle from Japan it is equipped with a turbocharged 3cyl engine with a top mounted intercooler, hence the functional hoodscoop. While its displacement is only 658cc, the turbo charger gives it a sharp boost of power under acceleration you wouldn’t expect compared to a typical Samurai. Mated to this motor is a 5 speed manual transmission that is geared to allow you to drive at 65 mph without issue.
The interior of the JA22 was redesigned along with the suspension and drivetrain making these surprisingly comfortable little rigs. The JA22 also saw the introduction of the of the more powerful K6A engine which replaced the outgoing F6A. At the end of the day these were Kei cars, so don’t expect them to be as luxurious as an 80 Series Land Cruiser, but the interior doesn’t feel cheap. The entire dash layout is simple and easy to read. The climate control system is simplistic and working as it should. The heat is pumping hot air through the cabin, and the A/C works as intended too.
For a versatile vehicle that can be used for anything from a run around town to a sturdy off-road rig, the Jimny is a solid choice. Fuel efficient, robust, and lots of fun to drive. Finding a clean, low mileage Suzuki Samurai in the United States has become quite the difficult task. Thankfully, these awesome JDM JA22 Jimny’s are now fully legal to own and drive Stateside.