1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 26 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. Both 1978 Alpine A 442 and 2004 BMW 318 are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 840 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 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 442 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1580 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2730 mm |
