1974 Alpine A 310 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Alpine A 310. (127 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1974 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 370 kg more than 1974 Alpine A 310. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Alpine A 310 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Alpine A 310. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Alpine A 310. (146 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Alpine A 310 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpine | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 310 | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1605 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 54 L |
