2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 400 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 1940 mm |
