1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2011 Alpina B7
To start off, 2011 Alpina B7 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (193 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 410 kg more than 2011 Alpina B7.
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, 2011 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2011 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Alpina |
| Model | Express | B7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6505 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 3140 mm |
