1998 Suzuki Vitara vs. 1981 Suzuki SJ 410
To start off, 1998 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki SJ 410. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki SJ 410 would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Suzuki Vitara (77 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki SJ 410. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki SJ 410. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 120 kg more than 1981 Suzuki SJ 410. 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, 1998 Suzuki Vitara (127 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki SJ 410. (75 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki SJ 410.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Suzuki Vitara | 1981 Suzuki SJ 410 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Vitara | SJ 410 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 77 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 75 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2040 mm |
