1982 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1977 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1982 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 3,275 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (87 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 696 kg more than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Ford Thunderbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1982 Ford Thunderbird (209 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1982 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Suzuki LJ 50. 1982 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 has manual transmission. 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Thunderbird | 1977 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Thunderbird | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1977 |
| Engine Size | 3275 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1436 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 1940 mm |
