1992 Alpina B 12 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1992 Alpina B 12 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 244 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 1992 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm). This means 1992 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1992 Alpina B 12 has manual transmission. 1992 Alpina B 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Alpina B 12 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 12 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1794 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2830 mm |
