1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado

To start off, 1978 Alpine A 442 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado would be higher. At 7,446 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado. (265 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado weights approximately 1375 kg more than 1978 Alpine A 442.

Because 1978 Alpine A 442 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 442. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado, 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. 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado has automatic transmission and 1978 Alpine A 442 has manual transmission. 1978 Alpine A 442 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Alpine A 442 1971 Oldsmobile Toronado
Make Alpine Oldsmobile
Model A 442 Toronado
Year Released 1978 1971
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 7446 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 484 HP 265 HP
Engine RPM 9900 RPM 4200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 740 kg 2115 kg
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 3110 mm