1991 Alpina B vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Alpina B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Alpina B would be higher. At 5,646 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Alpina B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Alpina B (410 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Alpina B should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alpina B weights approximately 466 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Alpina B 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. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 (570 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 Alpina B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1991 Alpina B has manual transmission. 1991 Alpina B will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alpina B | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 5646 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1866 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2578 mm |
