1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alpina B 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alpina B 12 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 397 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Because 1997 Alpina B 12 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 12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva, 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 12 (469 Nm) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (230 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Alpina | Opel |
| Model | B 12 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
