1974 Alpine A 310 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1974 Alpine A 310. (127 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 515 kg more than 1974 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Alpine A 310. (146 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Alpine A 310 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alpine | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 310 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1605 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
