1974 BMW 518 vs. 1976 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 518 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50.
Because 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 BMW 518. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 518 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 518 | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1940 mm |
