2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Because 2003 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 2003 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (362 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
