2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 61 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (240 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 20 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3.
Because 1999 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alpina B3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
