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 158 more horse power than 2001 BMW M3. (342 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 475 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 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M3. (502 Nm). This means 2012 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M3.
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 | 3246 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3071 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 82 L |
