2008 Opel Astra vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50

To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 30 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 1,796 cc, 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 655 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.

Because 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Opel Astra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2008 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 has manual transmission. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Opel Astra 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
Make Opel Suzuki
Model Astra LJ 50
Year Released 2008 1978
Engine Size 1796 cc 539 cc
Horse Power 123 HP 26 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 52 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1395 kg 740 kg
Vehicle Length 4260 mm 3280 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1420 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1690 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 1940 mm