1993 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C (73 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 776 kg more than 1980 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C (130 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | C | Alto |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2160 mm |
