2009 Alpina B5 vs. 1997 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Alpina B5 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 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 379 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B5 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 532 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318. 2009 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW 318 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 | 1997 BMW 318 | |
Make | Alpina | BMW |
Model | B5 | 318 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |