1982 Suzuki SJ410 review from UK and Ireland

My SJ was 8 years old when I bought it, and I had no real problems in the two years I had it.

The battery died, which I would consider a normal expense as batteries generally only last 2-3 years.

The clutch started slipping a little, but I sold it before it was bad enough to bother doing anything about it.

I loved this car!! Yes it bounced a lot, yes it had a top speed of 70 mph, but it had a very short wheelbase, and a 1 litre engine. The more important aspect of this car is that it's so much fun!! You may take longer to get there than anyone else, but you'll be smiling when you arrive.

It was great for city driving, small and easy to park, and high enough to see over most of the cars in front of you in traffic. Also it was very nippy, and would accelerate away from the traffic lights really quickly.

I also did a few long trips in it, one of which involved towing a boat 200 miles, which although it slowed me down to 60mph, that's the speed limit anyway when towing in the UK! As for the bouncy ride, well you get used to it!

My opinion is that you need to accept this car for what it is, it's not a sports car, hot hatchback, or luxury saloon. It's a small and compact, economical 4x4 (which actually does very well off road, unlike many other SUV's). So don't expect high speeds, or a smooth ride, and you won't be disappointed.

The only reason I sold my SJ was to get a motorbike!!