2009 BMW 523 vs. 1981 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 890 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 523 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1981 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | BMW | Suzuki |
| Model | 523 | Alto |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2160 mm |
