1999 Alpina B3 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 Alpina B3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alpina B3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Alpina B3 (455 Nm) has 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
