2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 BMW 323
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (169 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1998 BMW 323. 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1998 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
