1981 Suzuki Jimny vs. 1972 ZAZ 966
To start off, 1981 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 ZAZ 966. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 ZAZ 966 would be higher. At 885 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 ZAZ 966 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 ZAZ 966 (27 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 ZAZ 966 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 ZAZ 966 weights approximately 44 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 ZAZ 966. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Suzuki Jimny 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, both vehicles can yield 52 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Jimny | 1972 ZAZ 966 | |
| Make | Suzuki | ZAZ |
| Model | Jimny | 966 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 539 cc | 885 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 26 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2170 mm |
