2008 Suzuki Alto vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Alto is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki Alto (62 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Alto should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 Suzuki Alto.
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, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Alto. (85 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Suzuki Alto | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Santana |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1061 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 60 L |
