1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2010 Alpina B7
To start off, 2010 Alpina B7 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 392 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Alpina B7 weights approximately 940 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Alpina B7 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 2010 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2010 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 550 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 2010 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 2010 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alpina |
| Model | A | B7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 88 L |
