1972 Alpine A 310 vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 40 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1972 Alpine A 310. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1972 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Focus weights approximately 512 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.
Because 1972 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 1972 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus, 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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Alpine A 310. (146 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Alpine A 310. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1972 Alpine A 310 has manual transmission. 1972 Alpine A 310 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Alpine A 310 | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Alpine | Ford |
| Model | A 310 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1605 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1337 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 47 L |
