1997 Alpina B 12 vs. 2011 Volvo S60
To start off, 2011 Volvo S60 is newer by 14 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 181 kg more than 2011 Volvo S60.
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, 2011 Volvo S60, 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo S60. (420 Nm). This means 1997 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo S60. 2011 Volvo S60 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. 2011 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alpina B 12 | 2011 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | B 12 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2776 mm |
