1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. (242 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1070 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 442 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1810 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2860 mm |
