1974 BMW 3 vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 693 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 1974 BMW 3. 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 1940 mm |
