1998 BMW 318 vs. 1980 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 18 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 700 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 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1980 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 318 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2160 mm |
