1989 Ford Escort vs. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Escort (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50.
Because 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1989 Ford Escort (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Escort | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 1940 mm |
