Simple: they look, feel and sound different.

These gtrs have been manufactured 4 more then 50 yrs now, crossing the ups and downs of the company, plants built and closed down, concepts changed... and U need an answer that has nothing 2 do w/ specs...

EVERYTHING is different, even under the same model name.

The fingerboard, weight, angle of peghead, neck, electronics, cutaway...

There r LesPauls with the SG shape.

There r 3 p/u models.

Some models were designed by order from dealers.

There r whole sites and forums dedicated 2 the Les Paul.

And with each model the users want a re-issue.

Just like the Fenders, the names 2day can mislead more then clarify.

If U really want 2 KNOW, U have 2 LEARN. Tough, but that's life. Gibson won't b changing their line 4 ur convenience.

U got 2 start somewhere.

Mine is a LP custom 1980 (Jan 7, Nashville), and indeed is hard 2 wear out. Built like a tank, and about the same weight. But the tone...

Peace,

Zooot