1972 Alpine A 310 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1972 Alpine A 310. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1972 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Alpine A 310. (146 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Alpine A 310 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 310 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1605 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2710 mm |
