2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 2003 Alpina B3
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 2003 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alpina |
| Model | 156 | B3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 254 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
