1981 Suzuki Alto vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 30 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 1,242 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Fiat Panda is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat Panda weights approximately 343 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, 2011 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Alto | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Suzuki | Fiat |
| Model | Alto | Panda |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 70.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 953 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2310 mm |
