2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 Ferrari 456M
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ferrari 456M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ferrari 456M would be higher. At 5,473 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Ferrari 456M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ferrari 456M (435 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ferrari 456M should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ferrari 456M weights approximately 135 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3. 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 1998 Ferrari 456M. 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, 1998 Ferrari 456M (550 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Ferrari 456M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1998 Ferrari 456M | |
| Make | Alpina | Ferrari |
| Model | B3 | 456M |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 5473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 435 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 110 L |
