1989 Alpina B 10 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 1989 Alpina B 10 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alpina B 10 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1989 Alpina B 10.
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, 1989 Alpina B 10 (705 Nm) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm). This means 1989 Alpina B 10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alpina B 10 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B 10 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 705 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Top Speed | 291 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1670 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
