2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1999 Alpina B3
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alpina B3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1999 Alpina B3 (455 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1999 Alpina B3 has manual transmission. 1999 Alpina B3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1999 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Alpina |
| Model | 166 | B3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 455 Nm |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 70 L |
