1977 Suzuki LJ 50 vs. 1996 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1996 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Suzuki Samurai (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 190 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Suzuki Samurai (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Suzuki Samurai will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 | 1996 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | LJ 50 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1940 mm | 2490 mm |
