2004 Alpina Roadster vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Alpina Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Alpina Roadster would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2004 Alpina Roadster 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 2004 Alpina Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2004 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina Roadster | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Roadster | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
