1958 BMW 502 vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 502 (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 502 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 502. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 502 | 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 502 | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 1940 mm |
