2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Alpina B7
To start off, 2011 Alpina B7 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 385 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B7 weights approximately 645 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2011 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 450 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2011 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alpina |
| Model | A | B7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.2 L/100km | 12.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 88 L |
