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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (148 HP @ 6300 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 345 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (187 Nm @ 2800 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 | 1970 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 93.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 63 L |
