“Retro Round-Eyed Suzuki “”Jimny”” is now available! What is the second generation of used Jimny? What are the points to consider when buying?
Full-fledged off-roader with ladder frame + part-time 4WD
Suzuki’s light four-wheel drive “”Jimny”” adopts a ladder frame and part-time 4WD system, which is a tradition of cross-country models originating from “”Jeep””. It boasts deep-rooted popularity as a full-fledged off-roader with top-class rough road drivability despite being a light car.
The retro ruggedness is irresistible! The “”Jimny,”” an authentic four-wheel-drive vehicle popular among girls with its chunky body .
Retro Round-Eyed 2nd-Generation Jimny
The Jimny is famous for its long model cycle.
It was born in 1970 by diverting the engine and transmission for the “”Carryy”” light truck of the time and fitting them into the light standards of the time.
The first generation lasted 11 years from 1970 to 1981, the second generation 17 years from 1981 to 1998, and the third generation 20 years from 1998 to 2018.
The fact that it is an extremely long-selling model probably contributes to a sense of stability and security for Jimny fans.
The current Jimny (4th generation), which was introduced in 2018, returns to its roots, adopting a straight line body and round headlights that are typical of XC vehicles.
The current model (4th generation), however, has evolved into a model that everyone can enjoy riding in comfort and safety, with the inclusion of Suzuki Safety Support (optional for some grades), a package of advanced safety equipment that includes a camera and radar-based “”Collision Damage Mitigation Braking”” and “”Accidental Movement Control.
The recent outdoor activity boom has been a tailwind for Suzuki, and at the time of its debut, orders exceeded 15,000 units, compared to the monthly sales target of 3,000 units, and its popularity and attention soared.
The retro-modern design that combines ruggedness and charm is popular among women, and has even created a new trend, with female Jimny owners being referred to as “”Jimny girls.
However, due to the high production volume and the global shortage of semiconductors, delivery of new Jimny models is currently being delayed. As a result, used car prices have skyrocketed, and even with a mileage of 30,000 km, the price of a used car is almost the same as the price of a new car.
In addition, used car prices of previous Jimny models are also gradually rising, with the popularity of the second-generation model, which was discontinued more than 20 years ago, said to be on a resurgence.
The second-generation Jimny, which was introduced in 1981, was designed with on-road performance in mind, while continuing the tradition of a ladder frame, part-time 4WD, and leaf rigid design.
The 17-year history of the second-generation Jimny can be broadly divided into four periods.
First, the first period (SJ30) from 1981 to 1986, and the 550cc period from 1986 to 1990 (JA71), when a turbo engine (and intercooler-equipped models in 1987) was added.
The third period (JA11), from 1990 to 1995, saw the expansion of the light car standard and the change to a 660cc engine, and the fourth period (JA12/22), from 1995 to 1998, saw the introduction of standardized door mirrors and improved comfort for passenger use.
As expected, the first and second periods of the early 550 cc models have decreased in circulation as used cars, but the third and later periods, especially the fourth period, are still available in significant numbers today.
Even the last model of the second generation has been out of production for more than 20 years, making it a bit like a classic car, but what is behind its popularity even today?
According to Mr. T, an industry insider familiar with the XC market, the appeal of the 2nd generation is that it can still be used as a tool.
The second-generation models are good because of their balance between cheapness and antiquity,”” he says. Especially in the 4th generation, with its 660 cc engine, a 3-speed AT and power steering as standard, the specifications have been improved to the point where it can be used for city driving as well.
Also, while the current model (4th generation) continues to command high prices, the 2nd generation used cars are inexpensive, starting at 500,000 yen, and because they are old, you don’t have to worry too much about scratching them while driving off-road.
The second-generation model is also characterized by its air conditioning and power steering, which make it much easier to drive. 64-horsepower turbo engine and lightweight (910 kg) body make it one of the most capable off-road vehicles on the market today.
The low base price is also the reason why many used cars are boldly customized, and the popularity of these cars is also due to their affordability.
The recent boom in retro designs is also contributing to the popularity of the second generation.
The simple interior with the minimum necessary equipment is perfect for hard-core enthusiasts who like to personalize their cars or who don’t like unnecessary decoration.
Next: We recommend the JA12 or JA22, which are in their fourth generation.
The retro round-eyed Suzuki Jimny is hot right now! What to look for in a used second-generation model? What are the points to consider when buying?
Recommendation: JA12 or JA22 4th generation models
The popularity of the 2nd generation Jimny is so strong that even in the customization of the current 4th generation model, there are many parts with a design reminiscent of the 2nd generation. So which model year of the 2nd generation Jimny is actually the best to buy?
Suzuki 2nd generation “”Jimny”” (1995/JA22)
The second generation Jimny is also a very long-selling model, so specifications vary considerably depending on the year, but we think the JA12/JA22, the fourth and final model (1995-1998), is the best choice.
From this model, the suspension was changed from leaf rigid to rigid with coil springs, and the ride quality was considerably improved.
Also, the engine has been increased to 64 hp, so there should be less chance of feeling a lack of power.
However, since the last model of the second generation is already about 25 years old, there is no denying the possibility of sagging and frequent breakdowns due to age-related deterioration.
As a vehicle chosen by people who drive off-road, the body must be carefully checked for scratches and rust.
It is also necessary to check if the hoses inside the engine and the rubber products used as security parts are still usable.
However, one of the reasons why we recommend this second generation is that there is a wide variety of aftermarket parts that can cover this deterioration. You can also choose a used car that has already been customized.
You can buy a used car with lift-up, larger tires, short bumpers, and other off-roader-like features at a great price, but before you buy, check how it has been customized and whether it is inspection-compliant.
The JA12 and JA22 models have different turbocharged engines, although it is difficult to tell the difference from the outside.
The JA12 is a SOHC engine that is powerful at low rpm and suitable for off-road driving, but it is not good at high rpm driving such as high-speed cruising.
On the other hand, the JA22 DOHC turbo engine is a high-revving engine that can handle urban driving and high-speed cruising, but it is said to lack power at low speeds and is often troublesome.
It is advisable to consult with a store that can properly maintain this type of engine before purchasing a car.
However, considering the fact that the car is almost 25 years old, many of them are MT (5-speed in the 4th generation models), and many of them have been customized, it is recommended to prepare 200,000-300,000 yen for the initial maintenance cost.
The 3-speed AT is not a problem in the city, but the engine speed will be high when cruising at high speeds. In this case, you need to drive with a manual transmission to lower the RPMs as much as possible, or ride with the expectation that it will be noisy at high speeds.
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The 2nd generation Jimny can be fully enjoyed as an off-roader even after more than 20 years have passed, but its strengths and weaknesses are clearly divided, such as inadequate comfort equipment due to its age and its weakness at high speeds, so some people may regret choosing it only because it is cheap.
The key to choosing the 2nd generation Jimny is whether you can ride it with an open mind or not.”
