1997 Alpina B 10 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B 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. In terms of performance, 1997 Alpina B 10 (340 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alpina B 10 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alpina B 10 weights approximately 330 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 B, 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 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. (300 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz B. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B has automatic transmission and 1997 Alpina B 10 has manual transmission. 1997 Alpina B 10 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 10 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 10 | B |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4619 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2780 mm |
