2007 Alpina B5 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Alpina B5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Alpina B5 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 337 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (156 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 2007 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 2007 Alpina B5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2007 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (250 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. 2007 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mercedes-Benz B has manual transmission. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alpina B5 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B5 | B |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 314 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2699 mm |
