2008 Suzuki Alto vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Alto is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Suzuki Alto. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 285 kg more than 2008 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Alto. (85 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Suzuki Alto | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alto | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1061 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
