2008 Alpina B5 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 2008 Alpina B5 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1991 BMW M12. (296 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW M12.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW M12. (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW M12. 2008 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW M12 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW M12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B5 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B5 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
