1974 Fiat 124 vs. 1989 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Alto is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Fiat 124 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Fiat 124 (59 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Fiat 124 should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Fiat 124 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 124 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 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 Fiat 124 (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Fiat 124 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 1989 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 124 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 38 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 68.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2180 mm |
