2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (457 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 535 kg more than 1980 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (601 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 541 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | C | Alto |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6208 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 457 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 601 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2160 mm |
