1960 Fiat 500 vs. 1987 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1987 Suzuki Alto is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 796 cc (3 cylinders), 1987 Suzuki Alto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Suzuki Alto (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1960 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Suzuki Alto should accelerate faster than 1960 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Suzuki Alto weights approximately 75 kg more than 1960 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Fiat 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 1960 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Suzuki Alto (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Fiat 500. (30 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1987 Suzuki Alto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Fiat 500 | 1987 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 500 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 500 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 555 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3190 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1960 mm | 2180 mm |
