2001 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Alpina B7

To start off, 2012 Alpina B7 is newer by 11 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alpina B7 (500 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alpina B7 weights approximately 555 kg more than 2001 BMW M3. 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, 2012 Alpina B7 (699 Nm) has 369 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (330 Nm). This means 2012 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3. 2012 Alpina B7 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. 2012 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 2012 Alpina B7
Make BMW Alpina
Model M3 B7
Year Released 2001 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2926 cc 4400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 317 HP 500 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 699 Nm
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 2105 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 5225 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1902 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1494 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 3211 mm