1980 Alpine A 310 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 21 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Alpine A 310 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1980 Alpine A 310. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1175 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 2001 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, 2001 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (370 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Alpine A 310. (203 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Alpine A 310 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 310 | ML |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2664 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 83 L |
