1991 Alpina B 12 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Alpina B 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Alpina B 12 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1991 Alpina B 12 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 1991 Alpina B 12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1991 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm). This means 1991 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alpina B 12 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 12 | A |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2430 mm |
