1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 2008 BMW 530
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 11 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 200 kg more than 2008 BMW 530.
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, 2008 BMW 530 (480 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alpina B 12. (469 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alpina B 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 2008 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B 12 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2890 mm |
