1989 Suzuki Alto vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Alto is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 310 kg more than 1989 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, 1983 Volkswagen Passat (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Suzuki Alto | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 59 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2560 mm |
