1957 Alpine A 106 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 24 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 106. (37 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 106.
Because 1957 Alpine A 106 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 1957 Alpine A 106. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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. 1981 Volkswagen Santana 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. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Alpine A 106 | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Alpine | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 106 | Santana |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 60 L |
