1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 514 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf, 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 303 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B 12 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2520 mm |
