1973 Fiat 500 vs. 1983 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1983 Suzuki Alto is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 796 cc (3 cylinders), 1983 Suzuki Alto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Suzuki Alto (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1973 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Suzuki Alto should accelerate faster than 1973 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Suzuki Alto weights approximately 100 kg more than 1973 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Suzuki Alto (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1983 Suzuki Alto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Fiat 500 | 1983 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 500 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 27 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 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2160 mm |
