1998 Alpina B 12 vs. 2009 BMW 550
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 11 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 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 BMW 550.
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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alpina B 12. (469 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alpina B 12. 2009 BMW 550 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. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alpina B 12 | 2009 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B 12 | 550 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 4799 cc |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 657 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2890 mm |
