2006 Alpina B5 vs. 1998 Mazda 626
To start off, 2006 Alpina B5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 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 403 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626.
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 Mazda 626, 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 555 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626. 2006 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 626 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 | 1998 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mazda |
| Model | B5 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
