1998 Alpina B 12 vs. 2009 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS 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 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Lexus IS.
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 Lexus IS (503 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alpina B 12. (469 Nm). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alpina B 12. 2009 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alpina B 12 | 2009 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Alpina | Lexus |
| Model | B 12 | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 4969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 416 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 503 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2740 mm |
