1981 Suzuki Alto vs. 1999 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 18 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 380 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, 1999 Volkswagen Polo (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Alto | 1999 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Polo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2410 mm |
