1999 Suzuki Vitara vs. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Vitara is newer by 19 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 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Suzuki Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Suzuki Vitara (79 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Suzuki Vitara weights approximately 256 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.
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, 1999 Suzuki Vitara (126 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Suzuki Vitara | 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Vitara | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 1940 mm |
