1978 Alpine A 310 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 28 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Alpine A 310. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 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, 2006 Volvo V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Alpine A 310. (208 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Alpine A 310. 2006 Volvo V50 has automatic transmission and 1978 Alpine A 310 has manual transmission. 1978 Alpine A 310 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 310 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Alpine | Volvo |
| Model | A 310 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2345 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 62 L |
