1999 Alpina B 12 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alpina B 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alpina B 12 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 110 kg more than 1999 Alpina B 12.
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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1999 Alpina B 12 has manual transmission. 1999 Alpina B 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B 12 | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | Alpina | Buick |
| Model | B 12 | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 5001 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1857 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2837 mm |
