The DFW Car & Toy Museum has expanded its collection with a 1988 Suzuki Samurai, a vehicle that represents the golden age of accessible off-roading. This particular example, which spent much of its life registered in South Carolina and North Carolina, has been added to the Ron Sturgeon Collection and showcases the practical modifications that made these compact vehicles trail-capable icons.
Powered by a 1.3-liter inline-four engine producing 63 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque, this Samurai features a five-speed manual transmission and dual-range transfer case that provided legitimate off-road capability. The vehicle has been upgraded with a 4-inch suspension lift, 15-inch steel wheels, and functional additions including a tubular front bumper, auxiliary driving lights, step bars, and a rear tow ball. The removable doors and multiple roof configurations—hardtop, soft top, and Bimini top—made it adaptable for various outdoor conditions.
Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum, described the Samurai as "the underdog that proved you don't need size to go big," noting that this example "has the lift, the gear, and the attitude" of vehicles from that era. The museum, which displays over 200 vehicles and 3,000 collectibles, adds new acquisitions throughout the year to maintain a dynamic visitor experience. The facility is located at 2550 McMillan Parkway in Fort Worth and offers free admission with hours from Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
This acquisition matters because it preserves a significant piece of automotive history that democratized off-road adventure. During the 1980s, the Suzuki Samurai offered consumers an affordable alternative to larger, more expensive 4x4 vehicles, creating a cult following that continues today. By displaying this modified example, the museum highlights how enthusiasts personalized these vehicles for practical use rather than mere showpiece status.
The implications extend beyond nostalgia, as the Samurai represents a shift toward smaller, more efficient off-road vehicles that preceded today's crossover market. Its preservation in a museum context helps document evolving consumer preferences in recreational vehicles and demonstrates how aftermarket modifications can extend a vehicle's functional lifespan. Visitors can learn more about the museum's collection at https://dfwcarandtoymuseum.com.
