1979 Chrysler 1609 vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1979 Chrysler 1609 is newer by 1 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 1,811 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Chrysler 1609 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Chrysler 1609 should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Chrysler 1609 weights approximately 360 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 1979 Chrysler 1609. 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, 1979 Chrysler 1609 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Chrysler 1609 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Chrysler 1609 | 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Suzuki |
| Model | 1609 | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 1811 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 1940 mm |
