1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1997 Alpina B 12 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 405 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
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, 1997 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 12 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2800 mm |
