1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1982 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1982 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1982 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1280 kg more than 1982 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1982 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Alto |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2160 mm |
