1991 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 2003 Alpina B3
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ. (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alfa Romeo SZ | 2003 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alpina |
| Model | SZ | B3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 254 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 63 L |
