1958 Alpine A 106 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1958 Alpine A 106. (37 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1958 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1958 Alpine A 106 has manual transmission. 1958 Alpine A 106 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Alpine A 106 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 106 | SL |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2570 mm |
