1999 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 2003 Alpina B3
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 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 2003 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 145, 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145. (255 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alfa Romeo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 145 | 2003 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alpina |
| Model | 145 | B3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 63 L |
