1978 Lada 1600 vs. 2012 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2012 Suzuki SX4 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lada 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lada 1600 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki SX4 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1978 Lada 1600. (78 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki SX4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lada 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1978 Lada 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Lada 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Lada 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki SX4, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Suzuki SX4 (190 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lada 1600. (122 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki SX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lada 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lada 1600 | 2012 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Lada | Suzuki |
| Model | 1600 | SX4 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4491 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1544 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 50 L |
