1998 Alpina B 12 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 515 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1998 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 1998 Alpina B 12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (281 Nm). This means 1998 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Alpina B 12 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | B 12 | A |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 190 HP |
Torque | 469 Nm | 281 Nm |
Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |