1972 Alpine A 310 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Alpine A 310 (124 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Alpine A 310 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 415 kg more than 1972 Alpine A 310.
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 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Alpine A 310. (146 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A 310 | A |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1605 cc | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |