2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1988 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 601 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1988 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 3 | Alto |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2180 mm |
