1971 Alpine A 310 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Alpine A 310 (93 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Alpine A 310 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 280 kg more than 1971 Alpine A 310.
Because 1971 Alpine A 310 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 1971 Alpine A 310. 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 (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Alpine A 310. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Alpine A 310 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 310 | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1646 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
