Alpine A310 / A110 Detailed Review: Classic Performance, 0–60 Specs, and Tuning Parts
(Note: While the “A320” moniker is most famous in aviation as the Airbus A320, Alpine’s iconic classic sports car lineup is led by the legendary A110 rally pioneer and its grand-touring successor, the Alpine A330 / A310. Below is a comprehensive look at the performance, acceleration specs, and essential upgrading components for Alpine’s classic lightweight sports cars.)
1. Acceleration & Performance Specs (0–60 mph)
Alpine’s engineering philosophy has always centred around low curb weight rather than massive engine displacement. This lightweight construction allows modest power plants to punch well above their weight class:
- Classic Alpine A110 1600S (1.6L Inline-4):
- Power: ~138 hp
- Curb Weight: ~710 kg (1,565 lbs)
- 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h): 6.3 seconds
- Top Speed: 130 mph (210 km/h)
- Alpine A310 V6 (2.7L PRV V6):
- Power: ~148 hp (later upgraded to 190 hp in GT Pack trim)
- Curb Weight: ~980 kg (2,160 lbs)
- 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h): 7.1 seconds (6.2 seconds for Boulogne models)
- Top Speed: 140 mph (225 km/h)
- Modern Alpine A110 GT / S (1.8L Turbo Inline-4):
- Power: 300 hp
- Curb Weight: 1,109 kg
- 0–62 mph (0–100 km/h): 4.2 seconds
0–60 mph Performance Overview
Modern A110 S (300 hp) [======> 4.2s]
Classic A110 1600S (138 hp) [===========> 6.3s]
Classic A310 V6 (148 hp) [=============> 7.1s]
2. Key Performance Upgrades & Aftermarket Parts
For owners looking to enhance dynamic agility or restore classic Alpine sports cars, several key upgrades yield significant gains:
Suspension & Chassis
- Adjustable Coilover Kits: Upgrading to Bilstein or GAZ adjustable dampers significantly improves high-speed cornering stability while taming rear-engine swing-axle characteristics.
- Urethane Bushings: Replacing ageing rubber suspension bushings with polyurethane options restores sharp turn-in precision and steering feel.
Engine Tuning & Airflow
- Weber Carburettor Kits: Fitting twin Weber 45 DCOE carburettors on classic 4-cylinder engines optimises throttle response and peak high-RPM horsepower.
- Stainless Steel Exhaust Headers: Tubular exhaust manifolds allow better gas scavenging, freeing up mid-range torque and providing an aggressive exhaust note.
Braking & Wheels
- Vented Disc Conversions: Upgrading to multi-piston aluminium callipers and vented brake rotors minimises brake fade during spirited canyon drives or track sessions.
- Classic Three-Lug / Four-Lug Lightweight Alloy Wheels: Period-correct Gotti or Mad-In modular wheels reduce unsprung weight for improved suspension response.
3. Dynamic Driving Experience & Handling
- Lightweight Agility: With structural fibreglass bodies mounted on tubular steel backbone chassis, classic Alpines offer immediate directional changes with minimal body roll.
- Rear-Engine Traction: Placing the engine behind the rear axle delivers exceptional off-the-line traction, translating every bit of horsepower into instant forward momentum.
- Driver Engagement: Manual rack-and-pinion steering combined with short-throw gear linkage provides unassisted, razor-sharp feedback from the front tyres.
