1957 Alpine A 108 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 40 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 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 108. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 108. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1500 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Alpine A 108. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Alpine A 108. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1957 Alpine A 108 has manual transmission. 1957 Alpine A 108 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Alpine A 108 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A 108 | A |
Year Released | 1957 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 904 cc | 1898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 123 HP |
Torque | 68 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2430 mm |