1996 Opel Vectra vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Vectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Vectra would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B3 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B3 weights approximately 294 kg more than 1996 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Opel Vectra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Alpina B3 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 2011 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Opel | Alpina |
| Model | Vectra | B3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
