2002 Cadillac XLR vs. 1979 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2002 Cadillac XLR is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 4,570 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1979 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1979 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 910 kg more than 1979 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Cadillac XLR. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2002 Cadillac XLR (407 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Suzuki LJ 50. 2002 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1979 Suzuki LJ 50 has manual transmission. 1979 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Cadillac XLR | 1979 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Suzuki |
| Model | XLR | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
| Engine Size | 4570 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 316 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1654 kg | 744 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 1940 mm |
