2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 149 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. 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 Ford Contour. 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Alpina | Ford |
| Model | B3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
