1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B3 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1987 Ford Taurus. 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 1987 Ford Taurus. 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 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Taurus. (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Taurus | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Ford | Alpina |
| Model | Taurus | B3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
