2003 Suzuki Jimny vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Jimny is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Suzuki Jimny (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Jimny should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Jimny weights approximately 286 kg more than 1978 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, 2003 Suzuki Jimny (106 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Jimny will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Suzuki Jimny | 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Jimny | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 1940 mm |
