1999 Alpina B3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1999 Alpina B3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 194 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (134 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. 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 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Microbus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
