1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1997 Alpina B 12 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz S 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 230 kg more than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S.
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 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 1983 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 12 | S |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 154 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 223 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 | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2950 mm |
