1976 Alpine A 310 vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1976 Alpine A 310. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1976 Alpine A 310.
Because 1976 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 1976 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer, 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Alpine A 310. (208 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Alpine A 310. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1976 Alpine A 310 has manual transmission. 1976 Alpine A 310 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Alpine A 310 | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Alpine | Ford |
| Model | A 310 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2662 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
