1974 BMW 518 vs. 1981 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1981 Suzuki Alto is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 518 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1974 BMW 518 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 1981 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 518 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2160 mm |
