1994 Alpina B 12 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Alpina B 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Alpina B 12 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 422 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
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, 1994 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1994 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Alpina B 12 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B 12 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 260 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1790 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
