1959 Abarth 500 vs. 1988 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1988 Suzuki Alto is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 547 cc (3 cylinders), 1988 Suzuki Alto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Suzuki Alto (38 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Alto should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Suzuki Alto weights approximately 165 kg more than 1959 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Alto, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1988 Suzuki Alto (59 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Suzuki Alto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 500 | 1988 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Abarth | Suzuki |
| Model | 500 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 20 HP | 38 HP |
| Torque | 32 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 55 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 30 L |
