1980 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Alto is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,059 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Suzuki Alto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki Alto (62 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Alto should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort.
Because 1980 Ford Escort 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 1980 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Suzuki Alto (85 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Suzuki Alto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 2008 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Escort | Alto |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1059 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
