1995 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Alpina B7
To start off, 2011 Alpina B7 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B7 (500 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1995 BMW S3. (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B7 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1995 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alpina B7 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B7 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 B7 (699 Nm) has 439 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2011 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2011 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2011 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | BMW | Alpina |
| Model | S3 | B7 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3071 mm |
