1981 Suzuki Alto vs. 1997 Suzuki Swift
To start off, 1997 Suzuki Swift is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 993 cc (3 cylinders), 1997 Suzuki Swift is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Suzuki Swift (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki Swift should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Suzuki Swift weights approximately 130 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Suzuki Swift (76 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Suzuki Swift will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Alto | 1997 Suzuki Swift | |
| Make | Suzuki | Suzuki |
| Model | Alto | Swift |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2270 mm |
