1985 Suzuki Alto vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1985 Suzuki Alto is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 38 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 110 kg more than 1985 Suzuki Alto.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1956 Volkswagen Beetle (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1956 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Suzuki Alto | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2410 mm |
