1996 Fiat 126 vs. 1989 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1996 Fiat 126 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 796 cc (3 cylinders), 1989 Suzuki Alto is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Suzuki Alto (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Alto should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat 126 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Alto.
Because 1996 Fiat 126 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 1996 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Suzuki Alto (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Suzuki Alto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 1989 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Fiat | Suzuki |
| Model | 126 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 68.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2180 mm |
