Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
January 20, 2026
DFW Museum Adds Cult Classic 1988 Suzuki Samurai to Collection
TLDR
- The DFW Car & Toy Museum's acquisition of a modified 1988 Suzuki Samurai offers collectors insight into affordable off-road modifications that enhance trail capability.
- This 1988 Suzuki Samurai features a 1.3-liter engine, five-speed manual transmission, 4-inch suspension lift, and multiple removable tops for versatile off-road performance.
- The museum's addition preserves automotive history, making 1980s adventure accessible to visitors and inspiring appreciation for practical, no-frills engineering.
- A lifted 1988 Suzuki Samurai with 92,000 miles and cult status joins the museum as a time capsule of affordable off-roading.
Impact - Why it Matters
This news matters because it highlights the preservation of automotive heritage and accessible cultural experiences. The Suzuki Samurai symbolizes an era when off-roading was affordable and adventurous, appealing to nostalgia and inspiring new generations of enthusiasts. For readers, it offers a chance to explore a unique museum with free admission, showcasing how classic vehicles like this Samurai connect to broader trends in automotive design and popular culture. It also supports local tourism and community engagement in Fort Worth, providing an educational and entertaining destination that celebrates innovation and history in the automotive world.
Summary
The DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, has expanded its renowned Ron Sturgeon Collection with the acquisition of a 1988 Suzuki Samurai, a legendary compact off-roader celebrated for its cult following and rugged trail capabilities. This particular vehicle, which spent much of its life on the East Coast, embodies the spirit of no-frills adventure from the 1980s, featuring a peppy 1.3-liter engine, five-speed manual transmission, and dual-range transfer case that provided legitimate off-road performance. Enhanced with a 4-inch suspension lift, 15" steel wheels, and practical modifications like a tubular front bumper and auxiliary lights, this Samurai is equipped for both function and flair, while its removable doors and multiple roof configurations make it a versatile year-round companion.
Ron Sturgeon, the museum's founder and a dedicated car collector for over 30 years, highlighted the significance of this addition, stating, "The Suzuki Samurai was the underdog that proved you don't need size to go big." This vehicle, with its 92,000 miles and road-worn history, joins over 200 vehicles and 3,000 collectibles at the museum, which recently relocated to a 150,000-square-foot facility in North Fort Worth. The museum, accessible via its website at dfwcarandtoymuseum.com, offers free admission and parking, along with climate-controlled storage and event facilities, making it a dynamic destination for automotive enthusiasts and families alike.
This acquisition underscores the museum's commitment to preserving automotive history and providing an engaging experience for visitors. The Suzuki Samurai represents a golden age of affordable off-roading, and its inclusion in the collection adds to the diverse array of exhibits that showcase rare finds and classic cars. For more information on the museum's offerings, including its dog-friendly policy and operating hours, visit the DFW Elite Toy Museum website, which remains a valuable resource for toy and car lovers worldwide.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content disributed by 24-7 Press Release. Read the original source here, DFW Museum Adds Cult Classic 1988 Suzuki Samurai to Collection
