1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 450 kg more than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Citroen Xsara. 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, 1997 Citroen Xsara (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Citroen | Suzuki |
| Model | Xsara | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 1940 mm |
