1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 185 kg more than 2003 Opel Vectra.
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 Vectra, 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Vectra. (370 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Vectra. 2003 Opel Vectra 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. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Alpina | Opel |
| Model | B 12 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2740 mm |
