2001 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B3 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2011 Alpina B3.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Alpina B3 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2011 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | BMW | Alpina |
| Model | M3 | B3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2730 mm |
