1981 Suzuki Alto vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 614 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Alto | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Golf |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2520 mm |
