1972 Honda Civic vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,169 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Honda Civic (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1972 Honda Civic.
Because 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Honda Civic. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Honda Civic (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Honda Civic | 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Honda | Suzuki |
| Model | Civic | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 1169 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 678 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 1940 mm |
