1981 Suzuki Alto vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 29 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 344 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1411 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Alto | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Suzuki | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Alto | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 2021 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 3165 mm |
