1983 Suzuki Alto vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1983 Suzuki Alto is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (53 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1983 Suzuki Alto. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1983 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1983 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1973 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Suzuki Alto | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 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 | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2340 mm |
