2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 Ford Focus
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 Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus 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 167 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 401 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Ford Focus, 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 @ 4800 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Alpina | Ford |
| Model | B3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
