2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 is newer by 31 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 550 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 2009 BMW Z4. 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, 2009 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. 2009 BMW Z4 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. 2009 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | Z4 | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 1940 mm |
