1991 BMW M12 vs. 1959 Alvis TD
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alvis TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alvis TD would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1959 Alvis TD. (117 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1959 Alvis TD.
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 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alvis TD. (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alvis TD. 1959 Alvis TD has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1959 Alvis TD will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1959 Alvis TD | |
| Make | BMW | Alvis |
| Model | M12 | TD |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
