1959 Alpine A 106 vs. 1972 BMW 3
To start off, 1972 BMW 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1959 Alpine A 106. (37 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1959 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alpine A 106 | 1972 BMW 3 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 106 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2620 mm |
