2001 Alpina B3 vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alpina B3 (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alpina B3 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3, 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, 2001 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alpina B3 | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Alpina | Audi |
| Model | B3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
