1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1990 BMW 518
To start off, 1990 BMW 518 is newer by 12 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Alpine A 442 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 371 more horse power than 1990 BMW 518. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 518 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 | 1990 BMW 518 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 442 | 518 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 113 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 | 2770 mm |
