1999 Alpina B3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alpina B3 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 90 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. (238 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 370 kg more than 1999 Alpina B3.
Because 1999 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 1999 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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, 1999 Alpina B3 (455 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. (320 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1999 Alpina B3 has manual transmission. 1999 Alpina B3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
