1996 Suzuki Baleno vs. 2005 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2005 Skoda Octavia is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Baleno would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Skoda Octavia (99 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 220 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. 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, 2005 Skoda Octavia (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. (133 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Baleno. 2005 Skoda Octavia has automatic transmission and 1996 Suzuki Baleno has manual transmission. 1996 Suzuki Baleno will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Skoda Octavia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Suzuki Baleno | 2005 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Suzuki | Skoda |
| Model | Baleno | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2580 mm |
