2009 Alpina B5 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet
To start off, 2009 Alpina B5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 378 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
Because 2009 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 2009 Alpina B5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet, 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, 2009 Alpina B5 (700 Nm) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. (165 Nm). This means 2009 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet. 2009 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alpina B5 | 1996 Volkswagen Cabriolet | |
Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
Model | B5 | Cabriolet |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 165 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 309 km/hour | 157 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2480 mm |