1998 Alpina B 12 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 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 300 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 1998 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm). This means 1998 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alpina B 12 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B 12 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 181 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2770 mm |
