1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1997 Alpina B 12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 465 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (280 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 12 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 280 Nm |
| 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 | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2410 mm |
