1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Alpina B5
To start off, 2011 Alpina B5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 20 kg more than 2011 Alpina B5.
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, 2011 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Alpina B5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alpina |
| Model | SL | B5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
