1977 Alpine A 310 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Alpine A 310 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 260 kg more than 1977 Alpine A 310.
Because 1977 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 1977 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1977 Alpine A 310 (208 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Alpine A 310 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1977 Alpine A 310 has manual transmission. 1977 Alpine A 310 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Alpine A 310 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 310 | A |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 Weight | 980 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 60 L |
