1998 Alpina B 12 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alpina B 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alpina B 12 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alpina B 12. (469 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alpina B 12. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1998 Alpina B 12 has manual transmission. 1998 Alpina B 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alpina B 12 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 12 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 355 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2440 mm |
