1991 Alpina B 12 vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 18 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 225 kg more than 2009 BMW 523.
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 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 1991 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1991 Alpina B 12 has manual transmission. 1991 Alpina B 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alpina B 12 | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B 12 | 523 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2890 mm |
