1990 Lotus Elan vs. 1976 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Lotus Elan weights approximately 220 kg more than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Lotus | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 1940 mm |
