1980 Alpine A 310 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Alpine A 310. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1010 kg more than 1980 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Alpine A 310. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Alpine A 310. (203 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Alpine A 310. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1980 Alpine A 310 has manual transmission. 1980 Alpine A 310 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Alpine A 310 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 310 | ML |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 72 L |
