1983 Alpine A 310 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1983 Alpine A 310. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 388 kg more than 1983 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Alpine A 310. (208 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Alpine A 310 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 310 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 2663 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 208 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2710 mm |
