2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1989 BMW 850
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1989 BMW 850.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 BMW 850. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1989 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 850 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
