1988 BMW 535 vs. 1981 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1988 BMW 535 is newer by 7 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 1020 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 1988 BMW 535 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 1988 BMW 535. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 1981 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 535 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2160 mm |
