1957 Alpine A 108 vs. 1971 Fiat 128
To start off, 1971 Fiat 128 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Alpine A 108. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Alpine A 108 would be higher. At 1,115 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Fiat 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Fiat 128 (63 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 108. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 128 should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 108. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 128 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1957 Alpine A 108. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Alpine A 108 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 108. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Fiat 128, 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, 1971 Fiat 128 (83 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Alpine A 108. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Fiat 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Alpine A 108.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Alpine A 108 | 1971 Fiat 128 | |
| Make | Alpine | Fiat |
| Model | A 108 | 128 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 1115 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 55.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2230 mm |
