1988 Suzuki Alto vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,421 cc (3 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 555 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Alto | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Polo |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 547 cc | 1421 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 45 L |
