1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1981 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1981 Suzuki Alto is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 955 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1981 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | 240 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2160 mm |
