1959 Alpine A 106 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 49 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 710 kg more than 1959 Alpine A 106.
Because 1959 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 1959 Alpine A 106. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alpine A 106. (45 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alpine A 106. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1959 Alpine A 106 has manual transmission. 1959 Alpine A 106 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alpine A 106 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 106 | A |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 54.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 530 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 60 L |
