1978 Suzuki LJ 50 vs. 2005 Lancia Zeta
To start off, 2005 Lancia Zeta is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lancia Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lancia Zeta (135 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lancia Zeta should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 860 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 2005 Lancia Zeta. 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, 2005 Lancia Zeta (186 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. 2005 Lancia Zeta has automatic transmission and 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 has manual transmission. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lancia Zeta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | 2005 Lancia Zeta | |
| Make | Suzuki | Lancia |
| Model | LJ 50 | Zeta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1940 mm | 2830 mm |
