2004 Dodge Dakota vs. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2004 Dodge Dakota is newer by 24 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Dakota (209 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 1216 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 2004 Dodge Dakota. 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, 2004 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Dakota | 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Dodge | Suzuki |
| Model | Dakota | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1956 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 1940 mm |
