Alpine A310 V6 Pack GT
The Alpine A310 V6 represented a significant evolution of Alpine's sports car philosophy when it was introduced in 1976. Built on the mechanical foundation of the earlier A110, the A310 featured dramatically different styling – angular, wedge-shaped bodywork that reflected 1970s design trends while maintaining excellent aerodynamics. The fiberglass body was both lightweight and practical, resisting corrosion while allowing easy repairs. The most significant upgrade was under the rear engine cover, where Alpine installed the newly-developed PRV V6 engine (a joint venture between Peugeot, Renault, and Volvo). Displacing 2.7 liters and producing 150 horsepower, the V6 provided smooth, flexible power that transformed the A310's character. The engine's V-configuration and 90-degree bank angle created a distinctive growl that added auditory drama to the driving experience. At just 980 kg, the A310 V6 offered an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of 153 hp/ton, enabling genuine sports car performance. Zero to 100 km/h came up in under 8 seconds, while top speed exceeded 220 km/h. More importantly, the car felt alive and engaging on twisty roads, with quick steering, excellent balance, and prodigious grip from its wide tires. The chassis featured fully independent suspension with double wishbones at all four corners and coil springs. This gave the A310 exceptional handling precision and a compliant ride. Four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated fronts provided strong, fade-resistant stopping power. The rear-engine layout required careful throttle modulation in slippery conditions, but in skilled hands, the A310 was devastatingly quick. Inside, the A310 offered a surprisingly practical cabin with seating for two, adequate luggage space in the front trunk, and a well-designed dashboard with full instrumentation. The driving position was excellent, with the steering wheel and pedals perfectly aligned. Visibility was good for a low-slung sports car, though the thick rear pillars created some blind spots. The A310 competed directly with the Porsche 911 and succeeded in offering comparable performance and handling at a significantly lower price. While it never achieved the 911's commercial success or prestige, the A310 earned respect from enthusiasts who appreciated its unique character and French flair. Today, the A310 V6 is recognized as one of the finest sports cars of the 1970s and early 1980s. Values have risen steadily as collectors discover its combination of performance, style, and relative rarity. The Pack GT variants with their enhanced equipment and wider wheels are particularly sought-after.
The fiberglass body is durable but check for stress cracks, poor repairs, and improper modifications. The PRV V6 engine is generally reliable but requires regular maintenance – timing belt replacement every 60,000 km is critical. Check for oil leaks around valve covers and rear main seal. The gearbox is robust but synchros on second gear can wear. Rear suspension bushings wear and affect handling – insist on recent replacement. Electrical gremlins are common, particularly with aging wiring. Parts availability is reasonable through Alpine and Renault specialists in France but challenging elsewhere. Look for documented service history and avoid heavily modified examples. Pack GT models with original specifications command premiums.
2,778 Alpine A310 V6 models were produced from 1976-1985. The Pack GT variant offered enhanced equipment including wider wheels, improved interior trim, and additional sound deadening. All A310s were hand-built at Alpine's Dieppe facility using fiberglass bodies and Renault-sourced mechanical components. Production ended in 1985 when it was replaced by the A610.