1988 Saab 9000 vs. 2012 Alpina B7
To start off, 2012 Alpina B7 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alpina B7 (500 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 325 more horse power than 1988 Saab 9000. (175 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1988 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alpina B7 weights approximately 772 kg more than 1988 Saab 9000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Alpina B7 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 2012 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 2012 Alpina B7 (699 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 421 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Saab 9000. (278 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Saab 9000. 2012 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 9000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Saab 9000 | 2012 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Saab | Alpina |
| Model | 9000 | B7 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1333 kg | 2105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5225 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1494 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3211 mm |
