1991 Alpina B vs. 1996 BMW 316
To start off, 1996 BMW 316 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Alpina B. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Alpina B would be higher. At 5,646 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Alpina B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Alpina B (410 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1996 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Alpina B should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alpina B weights approximately 556 kg more than 1996 BMW 316. 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, 1991 Alpina B (570 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 316. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1991 Alpina B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alpina B | 1996 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B | 316 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1996 |
| Engine Size | 5646 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1866 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
