1978 Alpine A 310 vs. 1998 Kia Elan
To start off, 1998 Kia Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Alpine A 310 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Kia Elan (151 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1978 Alpine A 310. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1978 Alpine A 310.
Because 1978 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 1978 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan, 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, 1978 Alpine A 310 (208 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Elan. (186 Nm). This means 1978 Alpine A 310 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 310 | 1998 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Alpine | Kia |
| Model | A 310 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 151 HP |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2270 mm |
