2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1989 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 17 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1155 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1989 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | SLK | Alto |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 68.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2180 mm |
