1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Alpine A 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Alpine A 442 would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 346 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1978 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 442 | 250 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2525 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1360 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2800 mm |
