2001 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2001 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 21 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 659 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Daihatsu Copen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Daihatsu Copen (62 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Daihatsu Copen should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Daihatsu Copen weights approximately 60 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 2001 Daihatsu Copen. 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, 2001 Daihatsu Copen (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Daihatsu Copen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Daihatsu Copen | 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Suzuki |
| Model | Copen | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 1940 mm |
