In the 1980s, the Suzuki Samurai - opens in new window or tab. gained a cult following as a small but capable 4x4. This compact SUV was the second-generation Suzuki Jimny in Japan—not to be confused with the GMC Jimmy - opens in new window or tab.. A rare first-generation 1972 Suzuki LJ20 Jimny was recently for sale on eBay in Boulder, Colo.
item 1 of 15
Small Is Beautiful
The Suzuki Jimny/Samurai has a legendary reputation around the world. The model dates back to 1970. In one sign of devotion to the vehicle, a Japanese enthusiast built a museum - opens in new window or tab. dedicated to its four generations.
Despite its slight size, the Jimny is packed with off-road engineering. It boasts equipment that larger and more rugged-looking SUVs lack. Jimnys employ an authentic body-on-frame architecture atop a ladder-frame chassis built for strength when traversing unpaved terrain.
Jimnys also have a low range for getting through loose surfaces and steep hills. Today, you’d be hard-pressed to find these features on all but the most hard-core, heavier, larger SUVs—such as Jeep Wranglers - opens in new window or tab., Toyota 4Runners - opens in new window or tab., and Toyota Land Cruisers - opens in new window or tab..
On the other hand, the Jimny is a featherweight. A first-generation example, like the one for sale, weighs just 1,325 pounds. That translates to less weight, which can be helpful on soft or slippery surfaces. Its lightness has also made it a popular dinghy vehicle to be flat-towed behind RVs - opens in new window or tab.. Its smaller size also means a greater ability to navigate around obstacles.
A short wheelbase like the Jimny’s equates to a smaller break-over angle, allowing the vehicle to climb over obstructions without getting high-centered.
Rollover Controversy
The same attributes that made the Jimny a great off-roader also made it fail specific safety tests. Consumer Reports reported that the Samurai had an unacceptably high rollover risk during a sudden double-lane change maneuver.
Suzuki took Consumer Reports to court, and the two settled for an undisclosed sum. However, with its most successful model labeled as dangerous, Suzuki never fully bounced back and shuttered its automotive operations in the US in 2012.
That hasn’t stopped dedicated enthusiasts from embracing the Suzuki Jimny. In 2018, a fourth-generation model debuted to much acclaim. A Japanese builder offers to convert a new Jimny to look like a first-gen model. The closest Americans ever got were some limited sales in Mexico.
Nothing to Hide
The example for sale looks to be in great shape. It’s a first-generation specimen—referred to by its chassis code, LJ20. These were not officially sold in the US. Some Suzuki LJ20s were brought in by International Equipment Co., a third-party importer. We suspect that’s how this Jimny hitched a ride to the US. This vehicle has a left-hand-drive steering wheel.
The seller describes the LJ20 Jimny as a complete restoration with original parts. The meticulous work shows in the pristine engine bay and interior.
The eBay listing doesn’t offer much information about the restoration. However, because the Jimny's cabin is so basic, you can see the panels—such as the firewall, transmission tunnel, and cargo tray—usually hidden in other cars. Here, they are fully exposed, revealing the impeccable condition of this delightfully small off-roading machine.
About the author
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.