1999 Alpina B 12 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1999 Alpina B 12 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1999 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 1999 Alpina B 12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1999 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Alpina B 12 | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
Model | B 12 | Passat |
Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 469 Nm | 95 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |