1976 Alpine A 442 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 36 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (305 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 995 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Alpine A 442 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 442 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1735 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2875 mm |
