1999 Alfa Romeo 146 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 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (102 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. 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 146, 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (261 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 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2003 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alpina |
| Model | 146 | B3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 93.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 11.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 63 L |
