1986 Suzuki Alto vs. 1998 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1998 Honda S-MX is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Honda S-MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1986 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1986 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda S-MX weights approximately 702 kg more than 1986 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Suzuki Alto. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Suzuki Alto | 1998 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Suzuki | Honda |
| Model | Alto | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2510 mm |
