1988 Suzuki Alto vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra is newer by 24 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Sentra (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 810 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra (233 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Suzuki Alto | 2012 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Suzuki | Nissan |
| Model | Alto | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 547 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4575 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
