[ranjeet_sam]

The car looks fantastic, congratulations on the build. Your attention to detail and workmanship clearly shows in the finished product. I wish you many smiles with this beauty!

[krishnteja6969]

Hi deBAPS9002, it is really good to see and feel some old cars being saved and restored to glory. Kudos to your efforts and time. The attention to detail you have given steering, gear knob, seat belts, trim pieces and procuring alloys. LOVELY!
BTW What suspension are they sitting on?
Wish I could drive your car.
happy riding!

[Thad E Ginathom]

Originally Posted by MartinVirage

The work done looks fantastic! Please share the places where you carried out the restoration ... ... ...

Was all the work done by the same company as the paint? I'm thinking that stuff like upholstery would probably not be.

Do please post the details of your "partners" in this lovely work. It is a great reference for them and they deserve it.

[GJ01]

I see that you also got your seat belts changed to yellow. Did this require extensive search for getting the seatbelts in that exact matching shade of Yellow ?

[DeBAPS9002]

Chapter 4

Closing Torque: Reflections on Design, Modifications, and the Hands That Helped

1. Sculpted Simplicity

Alto by design was always something that was modern for its time but never tried to follow a popular trend. The design has aged well and after 25 years since launch in India, today it is reminiscent of a period in time in the automobile era.



As some of you commented, the design is truly a time capsule, and the epitome of analogue mechanicals. I am putting down my thoughts on what I deduce from the Alto design and styling.

In my opinion any car looks best from the side, and if that is designed well, you know the car is going to be a looker. Same holds true for the Alto.

The car’s side silhouette is elegantly balanced and understated, its flowing lines sculpting light and shadow in perfect harmony.

If I had to highlight a single design feature from this angle, it would be the sharp crease that begins at the rear door and slices through the taillight into the bootlid—its uninterrupted flow unifies the side and rear into one cohesive silhouette. Try closing your eyes next time you are around this car and feel this line flow; you will know exactly what I am trying to say.





Coming to the rear, the simplicity of the rear design makes it a delight to look at. The frosted tailights might make it look outdated to a few, but for me they are period correct and look good. The Reverse light placement on this car might make the car look aggressive at first, but you will ease into it over time.




The front of this car is the cutest, the face is so pure and innocent with nothing done to look trendy, everything there has a purpose and it does what it is suppose to do FUNCTION as DESIGNED.

I wanted to mention the bumpers separately because that has divided opinions in my conversations with a few folks. Yes this car looks good with Black bumpers or Body coloured; one of the few cars I can think of that can pull this off. Maruti 800, Zen, Matiz, Uno to name a few that can handle both Painted and Black bumpers with ease. I chose body colour because I wanted that balance that goes well with other painted plastic bits.

The design philosophy continues even inside the cabin, simple functional and no drama. The sliding HVAC controls, manual windows, warm white cabin light, green backlight for the instrument cluster and AC controls, AC vents taking up the centre stage rather than screens, hard plastic so it could stand the test of time, and the large glasshouse that makes it feel alive and awake! Not to forget the space for 2 DIN stereo, or a single din with space for Cassettes and CDs.

Talking about the inside of the car, this was designed with a sole purpose of being functional, it does look dated to me, but I have tried my best to spruce it up without messing with the design and period correct elements. This part looks relic to an extent but nothing that makes it unliveable.



2. Driving and Performance

This car drives like an Alto should. It is not the most comfortable or the most luxurious but does what it is supposed to do rather well. The sport mode for this car is AC turned off, and yes it works!

This car feels light to drive, doesn’t make you feel vulnerable on the road, unless you are being overtaken by Trucks or Buses.

Given the performance enhancements and modifications done, it is much more sprightly and eager on the move. The enhancements done were purely to get more joy from the drive, not necessarily to make it very fast.

At triple digits speed the thrill of taking something so light is epic, you need to be on the drivers seat to experience this joyride.

I want to take this moment to list down all the performance and handling enhancements done to date and the ones scheduled for the future.

Performance + Handling Upgrades and Functional Enhancements

• Full Free Flow Exhaust from AutoMech
• NGK Iridium Spark Plugs
• High Performance Ignition Coil and Cables
• 13 Inch Aura Alloys from Baleno Sedan
• 165/55/R13 Yokohama Earth1 Tires
• BMC high performance drop-in filter
• Dr. Nano Lowering Springs
• Side Skirts from WagonR stingray
• Rear Spoiler from K10
• Steering Wheel from Baleno Sedan
• Aluminium pedals from Sparco
• Upgraded sporty gearknob
• Dual Pod Instrument cluster with tachometer from WagonR
• Bucket Seats with side bolstering
• Day Night ORVM from Zen Estilo
• Internal Boot release mechanism
• 2 DIN JVC MGA Head unit with Blaupunkt dashboard speakers
• Upgraded ORVMs from VXI that are internally adjustable
• Yellow front seatbelts with extra stitches.

Scheduled future upgrades

• Header port and polish
• Front and rear Strut Braces
• Front Fog Lamps Rally Style

I am sure you are tempted to ask “Kitna Deti Hai” because it’s a Maruti! I will say a full tank will take you places and plaster a big grin enough to forget that question and focus on the thrill it delivers.



3. Gratitude: It takes a Village

It takes a village to raise a car like this back on track. As suggested by Thad, listing all the people who have made this project successful.

Mechanical Restoration and Performance Upgrade: This was done by Nikhil Wagle aka BeemerBug_06, his dedication to get this car back to being mechanically fit and some more was the springboard this car needed. You know where to find him. Special thanks to Sanjay for being there to fix the car along with him.

Bodywork and Painting: Desmo.One was tasked with this tough challenge and they managed to keep up with my level of quality output. Desmo.One is based out of Mahalunge, Pune and the owner of this establishment is Nikhil Chaturvedi who took this assignment as his project and ensured what was agreed was delivered.

Upholstery: The seats, steering, gearknob, roof and everything to do with material and fabric was done by Vehicle Artzone based out of Balewadi, Pune.

Hard to find parts: I don’t have the names of everyone that helped here, but Chor Bazaar at Grant Road, Kurla and Pune scrapyard were instrumental in getting hard to find discontinued parts.

Concept and Design: This was all me, the idea, the expectation and the imagination! If you want to see more pictures and posts do follow the Instagram Page made specifically for all my project cars PROJEKTKITT



4. Living with the Alto Sport

Living with the Alto Sport is more than just ownership—it’s a commitment to keeping passion alive. Yes, older cars demand a little extra TLC, but every careful polish, every well-timed service, and every late-night wrench-turning session keeps the spirit of the build roaring. When you treat your ride as more than a commodity—as a living, breathing project—you’ll never lose that spark of excitement. Here’s my car—my Alto Sport—rescued from dust and reborn through grit, late-night spanners, and unwavering passion.

Take this with you: the most potent upgrade isn’t hiding in the parts bin—it’s the pride and purpose you fuel into every journey.

[Thad E Ginathom]

Originally Posted by GJ01

I see that you also got your seat belts changed to yellow. ... ... ...

I noticed that lovely touch too. But I did wonder if the webbing is of same specification, as this might be very important in a safety device.

[DeBAPS9002]

Originally Posted by Leoshashi

Exceptional build, congratulations. Loved the details and highlights.

Any plans to upgrade to the 4 cylinder F10D? I feel that will truly complement this car.

Regards,
Shashi

Thanks a lot buddy, I have enhanced the output of the F08D for now so will use that engine as it has only done 60K and have immense life left.

Originally Posted by dwanderlustdrv

Looks lovely! I wonder how my VW Polo GT would look like in that shade!

Thanks! May I suggest Vegas Yellow from Audi for the Polo GT? A balanced combination of Yellow, Piano Black and Brushed Silver accents will make the car stand out. Do let me know your thoughts.

Originally Posted by MartinVirage

Fantastic Build! Being a fellow Punekar would be fantastic to catch up sometime.

The work done looks fantastic! Please share the places where you carried out the restoration - would be really helpful. A friend of mine wants to do up his SB308, but it is difficult to find willing and knowledgeable garages these days

We should meet for sure!

Originally Posted by ranjeet_sam

The car looks fantastic, congratulations on the build. Your attention to detail and workmanship clearly shows in the finished product. I wish you many smiles with this beauty!

Thank you so much for your lovely wishes

Originally Posted by krishnteja6969

Hi deBAPS9002, it is really good to see and feel some old cars being saved and restored to glory. Kudos to your efforts and time. The attention to detail you have given steering, gear knob, seat belts, trim pieces and procuring alloys. LOVELY!
BTW What suspension are they sitting on?
Wish I could drive your car.
happy riding!

Thanks a lot buddy, its got Dr. Nano springs.

Originally Posted by Thad E Ginathom

Was all the work done by the same company as the paint? I'm thinking that stuff like upholstery would probably not be.

Do please post the details of your "partners" in this lovely work. It is a great reference for them and they deserve it.

Thanks for this suggestion, I have added that in Chapter 4 which should be published shortly.

Originally Posted by GJ01

I see that you also got your seat belts changed to yellow. Did this require extensive search for getting the seatbelts in that exact matching shade of Yellow ?

Originally Posted by Thad E Ginathom

I noticed that lovely touch too. But I did wonder if the webbing is of same specification, as this might be very important in a safety device.

I didn't stress on the exact shade of yellow for the belt as that's impossible. I went for the standard yellow that was available. The webbing is reinforced on the existing seat belt mechanism so it is strong enough to do its duty. It is a calculated risk I have taken for this project.

[dwanderlustdrv]

A balanced combination of Yellow, Piano Black and Brushed Silver accents will make the car stand out. - I checked it out. Looks amazing!

[aa-Crecy]

This is excellent work; the paint and interiors are done with great aesthetics. The attention to detail is excellent. I very much want to experience this car for real.

Great work, very inspiring!

[v1p3r]

Looks lovely! A true passion project that will turn the heads of people like me and bring a smile to you everytime you even think of it, let alone drive it.

Originally Posted by DeBAPS9002

Thank you so much buddy! It may fit, but I will spare this Alto for now, the 796 with all the Tune is a happy puppy!

You should look at the 1.1 from the Alto VXi / Wagon R that should fit directly with no hassle. I see you've already got the instrument cluster from that car, this is the logical upgrade!

[ThatMAV1217]

DeBAPS9002, what an amazing resto-modification you have done to your First Gen Alto!

You have really transformed it into a rallying beast with a nice set of OEM Aura Alloys and a very tasteful yellow paint job!

One modification I hope you will do is adding a rear wiper and washer to your Alto as the 1.1 VX/VXi alto came with an OEM rear wiper and washer!

Good luck for further modifications to your First Gen Alto!

Regards,
ThatMAV1217

[swiftnfurious]

Thats such a lovely car !! Congratulations on building something that feels special.

Looks forward to knowing more about your Brio RS too !

[Aish_4761]

With my Alto nearing 22, these mods are on very similar lines to what I envisage on doing. A complete restoration inside out, including removal of the engine and other critical components. Complete damping, making the interior more plush but retaining the originality, something which contrasts the era of the car plus the new times we now live in, Carplay/Android Auto unit and extremely good set of speakers, the only problem is the front installation space, only accommodated 4inchers!
Since mine is a special edition, I want to keep things as factory spec as possible, the seats and the door cards have a special color combo scheme too!
Complete Seat rebuild is definitely on the cards.
That K10 spoiler, must have.

Well I can blabber for 10 days straight and still come up with something more!
Meanwhile, I am unsure if that is even legal but, instead of F10D, why not give it a 999boosterjet? Ofc it requires a hell lot of work including plublmbing, re-designing mounts, beefier radiator and what not, but the performance gain would be unmatched! In my faint thoughts, it has replaced my F8D already!

Adding a couple of snips of my Alto for the readers, nothing specia, just another Alto, though very special for me!

[DeBAPS9002]

Originally Posted by dwanderlustdrv

A balanced combination of Yellow, Piano Black and Brushed Silver accents will make the car stand out. - I checked it out. Looks amazing!

I am glad you liked it!

Originally Posted by aa-Crecy

This is excellent work; the paint and interiors are done with great aesthetics. The attention to detail is excellent. I very much want to experience this car for real.

Great work, very inspiring!

Thank you so much, when you are Pune next for sure!

Originally Posted by v1p3r

Looks lovely! A true passion project that will turn the heads of people like me and bring a smile to you everytime you even think of it, let alone drive it.


You should look at the 1.1 from the Alto VXi / Wagon R that should fit directly with no hassle. I see you've already got the instrument cluster from that car, this is the logical upgrade!

This car does get noticed! I am not disregarding the swap completely, may do it later.

Originally Posted by ThatMAV1217

DeBAPS9002, what an amazing resto-modification you have done to your First Gen Alto!

You have really transformed it into a rallying beast with a nice set of OEM Aura Alloys and a very tasteful yellow paint job!

One modification I hope you will do is adding a rear wiper and washer to your Alto as the 1.1 VX/VXi alto came with an OEM rear wiper and washer!

Good luck for further modifications to your First Gen Alto!

Regards,
ThatMAV1217

Thanks buddy! Wiper was on the cards, but then I dropped it. wanted to do the full wiper+defogger setup, maybe in the future.

Originally Posted by swiftnfurious

Thats such a lovely car !! Congratulations on building something that feels special.

Looks forward to knowing more about your Brio RS too !

Thank you for your kind words, Brio RS is the next post!!

Originally Posted by Aish_4761

With my Alto nearing 22, these mods are on very similar lines to what I envisage on doing. A complete restoration inside out, including removal of the engine and other critical components. Complete damping, making the interior more plush but retaining the originality, something which contrasts the era of the car plus the new times we now live in, Carplay/Android Auto unit and extremely good set of speakers, the only problem is the front installation space, only accommodated 4inchers!
Since mine is a special edition, I want to keep things as factory spec as possible, the seats and the door cards have a special color combo scheme too!
Complete Seat rebuild is definitely on the cards.
That K10 spoiler, must have.

Well I can blabber for 10 days straight and still come up with something more!
Meanwhile, I am unsure if that is even legal but, instead of F10D, why not give it a 999boosterjet? Ofc it requires a hell lot of work including plublmbing, re-designing mounts, beefier radiator and what not, but the performance gain would be unmatched! In my faint thoughts, it has replaced my F8D already!

Adding a couple of snips of my Alto for the readers, nothing specia, just another Alto, though very special for me!
Attachment 2757090

Attachment 2757091

WOW! your Alto looks amazing!!

[Redlineartist]

What a delight to the eyes! The white painted wheels go so well with your Alto. Couldn't recognize at first glance that it was Baleno sedan alloy.

Very inspiring project!