2006 Alpina B5 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2006 Alpina B5 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina B5 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2006 Alpina B5 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 2006 Alpina B5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2006 Alpina B5 (700 Nm) has 465 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 2006 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. 2006 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B5 | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B5 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 300 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
