1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 34 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2012 Volvo S80. (300 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1082 kg more than 1978 Alpine A 442.
Because 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Alpine A 442. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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. 2012 Volvo S80 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. 2012 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Alpine | Volvo |
| Model | A 442 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1822 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2835 mm |
