1972 AMC Matador vs. 1977 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Matador would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 965 kg more than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Matador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Matador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. 1972 AMC Matador has automatic transmission and 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 has manual transmission. 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | AMC | Suzuki |
| Model | Matador | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1977 |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 1940 mm |
