1981 Suzuki Alto vs. 2011 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2011 Lotus Elise 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Elise (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lotus Elise weights approximately 316 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 2011 Lotus Elise 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 2011 Lotus Elise. 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, 2011 Lotus Elise (210 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Alto | 2011 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Suzuki | Lotus |
| Model | Alto | Elise |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2299 mm |
