1959 Alpine A 106 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alpine A 106. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alpine A 106 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1959 Alpine A 106. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1959 Alpine A 106.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 393 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alpine A 106. (57 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alpine A 106.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alpine A 106 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Alpine | BMW |
| Model | A 106 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 844 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2610 mm |
