2003 Alpina B7 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Alpina B7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,399 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B7 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 369 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Alpina B7.
Because 2003 Alpina B7 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 2003 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2003 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alpina B7 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | B7 | A |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4399 cc | 1898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 492 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 295 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 54 L |