Virginia Tech or U Alabama for Mechanical Engineering

My son is torn between these 2 schools. He plans to focus on Automotive Engineering.
Any feedback?

He knows VT is ranked better, although Mercedes NA headquarters is very close to the Alabama campus and could have great opportuniitiies.

Are there many students from NY at VT?

Thank you in advance!

Has he visited?
Are there cost differences?
Student life differences?
Which weather does he like better?