1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1985 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1985 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Suzuki Alto weights approximately 120 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1985 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | Super 7 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2180 mm |
