2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 26 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 1010 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 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki LJ 50. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 has manual transmission. 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 1980 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Suzuki |
| Model | Malibu | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 1940 mm |
