1997 Alpina B 10 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 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 232 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alpina B 10 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1130 kg more than 1997 Alpina B 10.
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, 2012 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 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 10 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alpina B 10 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | B 10 | A |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
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 | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 250 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 | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |