2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 389 kg more than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Suzuki LJ 50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 1940 mm |
