1999 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 13 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 158 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 367 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, 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 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (240 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
