2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 16 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1291 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 641 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SL | Alto |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5441 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1921 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2180 mm |
