1976 Alpine A 442 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260
To start off, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Alpine A 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Alpine A 442 would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 weights approximately 784 kg more than 1976 Alpine A 442.
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. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 has automatic transmission and 1976 Alpine A 442 has manual transmission. 1976 Alpine A 442 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Alpine A 442 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 260 | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 442 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1524 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2940 mm |
