1982 Suzuki Alto vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1982 Suzuki Alto is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1982 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1982 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 260 kg more than 1982 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Suzuki Alto | 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2430 mm |
