1997 Alpina B 10 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alpina B 10. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alpina B 10 would be higher. At 4,619 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Alpina B 10 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alpina B 10 weights approximately 460 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1997 Alpina B 10 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 1997 Alpina B 10. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 Alpina B 10 (471 Nm) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 10 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 10 | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4619 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
