1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1990 BMW 850
To start off, 1990 BMW 850 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 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1990 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1990 BMW 850. (297 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 850 weights approximately 1050 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. 1990 BMW 850 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. 1990 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 1990 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 442 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 297 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1790 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2690 mm |
