1978 Suzuki LJ 50 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 29 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 500 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.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | LJ 50 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1940 mm | 2590 mm |
