2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Suzuki Alto

To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1238 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm) has 401 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Alto.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Mercedes-Benz SL 1988 Suzuki Alto
Make Mercedes-Benz Suzuki
Model SL Alto
Year Released 2004 1988
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4966 cc 547 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 3 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 302 HP 38 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 7500 RPM
Torque 460 Nm 59 Nm
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 65 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 55 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1848 kg 610 kg
Vehicle Length 4540 mm 3200 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1400 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 30 L