2008 Alpina B7 vs. 1998 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Alpina B7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 365 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B7 weights approximately 814 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Alpina B7 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 2008 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 2008 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 540 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2008 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Alpina B7 1998 Ford Focus
Make Alpina Ford
Model B7 Focus
Year Released 2008 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4398 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 493 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 700 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 84.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.7 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.0:1
Acceleration 0-100mph 4.9 seconds 9.2 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1960 kg 1146 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 55 L