1978 Suzuki LJ 50 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50.
Because 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | LJ 50 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1940 mm | 2480 mm |
