1972 BMW 3 vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B3 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B3 weights approximately 186 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 will offer significantly more control. 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 B3 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 3. (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 3. 2011 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
Make | BMW | Alpina |
Model | 3 | B3 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 355 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |