1981 Alpina B 10 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Alpina B 10. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Alpina B 10 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Alpina B 10 is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 1981 Alpina B 10 (469 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 520. (380 Nm). This means 1981 Alpina B 10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 520. 2011 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1981 Alpina B 10 has manual transmission. 1981 Alpina B 10 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Alpina B 10 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B 10 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4907 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2968 mm |
