1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1997 Alpina B 12 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380.
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 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. (305 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1997 Alpina B 12 has manual transmission. 1997 Alpina B 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alpina B 12 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | B 12 | 380 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 219 HP |
Torque | 469 Nm | 305 Nm |
Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2470 mm |