1996 Suzuki Vitara vs. 1976 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1996 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 20 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 1,904 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Suzuki Vitara (67 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 425 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.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Suzuki Vitara (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Vitara | 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Vitara | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 1904 cc | 797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 1940 mm |
