2009 Suzuki Equator vs. 1978 Suzuki LJ 50
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Equator (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki Equator weights approximately 235 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 Suzuki Equator. 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 Suzuki Equator (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Suzuki LJ 50. 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Suzuki Equator | 1978 Suzuki LJ 50 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Equator | LJ 50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5250 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 1940 mm |
