1957 Alpine A 106 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP) has 139 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 106. (43 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 106.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Alpine A 106. (45 Nm). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Alpine A 106. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1957 Alpine A 106 has manual transmission. 1957 Alpine A 106 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Alpine A 106 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 106 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 90 L |
