2006 Alpina B5 vs. 1998 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2006 Alpina B5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Hyundai Sonata 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 407 more horse power than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Hyundai Sonata.
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, 1998 Hyundai Sonata, 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 @ 4250 RPM) has 568 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Hyundai Sonata. (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B5 | 1998 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Alpina | Hyundai |
| Model | B5 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
