1978 Suzuki LJ 50 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 34 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 1,200 cc (3 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 392 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 2012 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Polo (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | LJ 50 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1132 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1940 mm | 2470 mm |
