1996 BMW 540 vs. 1993 Alpina B3
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1993 Alpina B3. (250 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1993 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Alpina B3 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 BMW 540.
Because 1996 BMW 540 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Alpina B3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Alpina B3. (260 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 540 | 1993 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | BMW | Alpina |
| Model | 540 | B3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 255 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1840 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2840 mm |
