Vitara Engines and Models

[MagpieCommunications]

Hope this fits the right section. Still a newbie here!

So im on the hunt for a clean, preferably unmodded, late 90's Vitara 2.0 TD 5 door (Not grand model).

Maybe some experts could shed some light. I found 2 of such vehicles. One 1997 model and one 1998 model.

The 98 model is a bit far away but I went to see the 97 model the other day.

On the ad for the 97 model, the guy said it had a more Rare Mazda engine in it. First question then, is that a thing? Were there different engine manufactures for these cars? And which is better to get?

So I rang up my insurance company to get some quotes for both the cars id been looking at. The nice lady mentioned that the two cars were different models. The 97 car being something called an LPTD model. I presume the TD stands for Turbo Diesel but ive no idea what the LP and why the 97 model was 17% more expensive to insure over the 98 model. Could it be something to do with that Mazda engine if that's a thing?

And anything I should keep an eye out for when looking for one of these cars?

Cheers in advance
Hugo

[dan_2k_uk]

The 2 different engines is a 'thing' but I dont know any more than that.

Hopefully someone will be along soon who knows more.

[Rhinoman]

I'm pretty sure all the old style Vitaras had the Mazda engine, the early GVs were also Mazda and then they switched to Renault because of the Ford/GM issues.